While most Americans are aware of artificial intelligence, their understanding of how it works varies depending on factors such as age and job position. And despite being open to AI handling specific tasks, Americans are reluctant to trust the technology with decisions that could significantly impact their own lives.
Krista Software, a developer of AI integration technology, surveyed 1,000 adults from across the U.S. to get a sense of their current knowledge, sentiments and trust in AI for performing tasks and making critical decisions.
“The survey results emphasize the importance of public awareness and transparency in how AI functions to build trust among people whose lives, jobs and freedoms may be impacted by AI adoption,” said Krista Software CEO John Michelsen.
Watching and Waiting
The survey found:
- Some 58% of respondents acknowledged AI’s existence, with Gen Z (61%) and Millennials (56%) feeling more confident in their understanding compared to 24% of older generations.
- In terms of AI’s perceived impact on jobs, 54% of Americans believe AI will affect their jobs, with management professionals anticipating positive outcomes, while rank-and-file workers are less optimistic.
- More than two-thirds – 67% of respondents – would not trust AI to make critical decisions. Even among those who generally support the use of AI, there’s a noticeable resistance when it comes to situations where the outcomes could directly or indirectly affect them personally — 75% would rather a human choose their work attire, for example, as opposed to AI.
- Although most respondents are aware of AI’s growing integration into everyday tools and platforms, the largest group (36%) described their overall attitude toward the technology as “neutral,” with 32% indicating a “slightly positive” attitude.
“As we integrate AI into our lives and business processes, we must consider that users and consumers may not have computer or data science backgrounds,” said Michelsen. “Business leaders must understand this and deploy AI in a way that they can build trust in AI decisions.”
Image: iStock
