Americans Fear AI’s Societal Impact and Don’t Believe Government Can Regulate It, Pew Study Finds

A Pew Research Center study released on May 2, 2024, found that approximately two-thirds of Americans believe artificial intelligence is advancing too quickly, despite a majority of adults using AI chatbots. The survey indicated that 40% of respondents anticipate AI will ultimately have a negative impact on society. Furthermore, the study revealed that 62% of Americans express concern about the potential for AI to be used for malicious purposes, such as spreading misinformation or enabling cyberattacks. A significant portion of the public, 57%, also voiced worries about AI's impact on the job market, fearing widespread job displacement. When asked about government oversight, a substantial 71% of Americans do not believe the U.S. government is capable of effectively regulating AI. Only 27% of respondents expressed confidence in the government's ability to manage the risks associated with AI development and deployment. The research highlights a public sentiment characterized by apprehension regarding AI's rapid progress and its potential societal consequences, coupled with skepticism about governmental regulatory capacity.