Americans are increasingly relying on artificial intelligence (AI) in their daily lives, yet continue to harbour deep-seated distrust towards it. According to a Quinnipiac University poll, 76% of those surveyed trust AI rarely or only sometimes, despite 27% having never used such tools.

Professor Chetan Jaiswal reflects on this paradox: “The contradiction between use and trust of AI is striking.” Many are wary about the future it brings; only 6% express excitement, while 80% harbour significant concerns. This sentiment isn’t limited to one age group – millennials, baby boomers, and Gen Z alike are equally apprehensive.

Moreover, a solid majority (55%) believe AI will cause more harm than good in their lives, with job prospects taking the brunt of this concern. Only 30% of employed Americans fear AI will make their jobs obsolete, yet that figure has risen from last year’s survey, indicating increased anxiety over automation.

Transparency and regulation also remain major issues. Two-thirds of respondents think businesses aren’t doing enough to be transparent about AI use, and the same proportion believes the government isn’t regulating these technologies adequately. This lack of trust is echoed in a pushback against state-level regulations by federal officials and industry leaders.

Americans are not rejecting AI outright, but clearly, they want more assurance that it will benefit them rather than harm them. The warning signs here suggest we must address our concerns about AI now – before it’s too late for many.