Gen X Most Comfortable With AI, Pew Research Survey Finds

A recent survey conducted by the non-profit, non-partisan Pew Research Center in June has revealed a surprising demographic trend regarding comfort levels with artificial intelligence (AI). While many might expect younger generations to be more receptive to new technologies, the survey indicates that Generation X, individuals aged 50 to 61, are the most comfortable with AI. This age group is the only one where a majority did not express being "more concerned than excited" about AI. This finding contrasts with the growing apprehension observed among younger adults, particularly Gen Z (under 30), who are increasingly worried about AI's potential to impact their employment. For the first time since Pew began tracking this sentiment in 2021, a majority of Americans under 30, specifically 55%, now report being "more concerned than excited" about AI. This level of skepticism mirrors that of Americans in their thirties, forties, and those aged sixty and older. The survey also highlighted a significant overall increase in concern across the American population regarding AI's integration into daily life. More than half of all Americans, 52%, stated they are "more concerned than excited" about the increased use of AI, a notable rise from 37% reported five years prior. Only 9% of respondents expressed being "more excited than concerned," while 37% felt equally concerned and excited. A primary driver of this apprehension, as identified by the survey, is the perceived threat of job loss. The belief that AI will lead to fewer jobs in the U.S. over the next two decades has grown substantially. A significant 71% of adults surveyed hold this view, an increase from 64% in 2024. Conversely, only 5% of respondents anticipate AI leading to more jobs. Younger adults, under 30, are particularly vocal about this concern, with 73% believing AI will result in fewer jobs, up from 61% two years ago. This perception among younger demographics now aligns with that of their older counterparts, aged 30 to 64. The survey data suggests that younger adults are also the most likely demographic to believe AI will have a negative impact overall.