Americans’ growing skepticism of AI has one clear message: they’re not buying the hype.
According to a recent Bentley University-Gallup survey, Americans are more familiar with AI than ever, with 70% claiming they’re somewhat or extremely knowledgeable about the technology – up from 64% in 2024. But that newfound understanding hasn’t translated to enthusiasm: nearly two-thirds of respondents (63%) believe AI will have a negative impact on the workforce, with 42% thinking it will cause significant job loss.
Why the hesitation?
The survey suggests that Americans are increasingly wary of businesses’ use of AI. Some 62% of respondents think that companies are using AI in ways that benefit shareholders but not employees or the broader public. This perception has led to a decline in trust in business leaders to use AI responsibly – down 10 percentage points since 2024.
Another reason for Americans’ caution may be the lack of transparency around AI decision-making. Some 54% of respondents believe that AI systems are too secretive in explaining their decisions, and nearly 6 in 10 (59%) think that humans should be able to review and correct AI-driven choices.
What this means
As AI continues to transform industries and workplaces, its impact will largely depend on how it’s used. Businesses that prioritize transparency, accountability, and worker well-being may find themselves ahead of the curve in terms of public trust and employee retention. Those that focus solely on maximizing profits risk exacerbating the public’s concerns and driving a backlash against AI adoption.
The survey’s findings should also serve as a reminder that AI’s benefits will not be realized unless its costs are addressed upfront. By listening to the public’s concerns and working to build trust, policymakers, business leaders, and tech innovators can help create a more equitable and sustainable AI future that benefits everyone, not just a select few.
