By Paul Kedrosky
Americans often express dislike for artificial intelligence (AI), setting them apart globally in their skepticism. A survey involving 24,000 adults from 30 countries shows that except Americans, most populations, wealthy or impoverished, have a more positive outlook on AI. This perception is surprising given America’s status as a wealthy and technologically advanced nation, where people typically embrace new tech.
The tech sector argues that American apprehension is misguided and blames the media for fearmongering and spreading foreign misinformation. They suggest that changing the narrative could boost support for AI. For example, conversations in Reddit AI forums and speeches by tech executives at graduations often promote AI enthusiastically.
However, despite these efforts, attitudes haven’t shifted. This is because the theory that American pessimism is founded on media, education, or political leanings is incomplete. Across all these categories, AI skepticism spans widely, instead aligning with labor market structures.
Globally, poorer nations exhibit AI optimism. Countries like Indonesia and Thailand show approval rates of 76% and 77%, respectively, while Mexico sits at 63%. In contrast, affluent countries like the United States, the Netherlands, and Belgium are less supportive. Economic positioning heavily influences AI perspectives.
In economies where jobs are informal, lacking contracts and legal protections, AI represents progress toward economic opportunities historically reserved for those with financial resources, education, and formal jobs. For instance, a small business owner in Guadalajara or a vendor in Jakarta stands to gain from AI developments with minimal risk.
Conversely, in countries with structured labor markets, AI may seem more threatening. It poses risks to existing employment stability, assured income, and professional equity. While theoretically, AI offers benefits, people fear it could undermine the stability they’ve achieved.
Thus, these differing economic contexts lead to varied perceptions of AI. In wealthier countries, the concern is more about the potential disruption of steady labor markets, whereas in poorer nations, AI symbolizes potential improvement in economic standing.