Survey Reveals Sharp Divide Between AI Experts and Public on Technology’s Future

Experts predict economic and job performance benefits from AI, while the public expresses distrust and calls for stronger regulation.

A Pew Research Center survey highlights a significant optimism gap: 56% of AI experts foresee positive impacts in the next 20 years, compared to just 17% of the general public.
Experts predict AI will enhance job performance and economic growth, with over 70% expressing confidence in these outcomes.
Nearly 60% of Americans feel they lack control over AI in their lives, contributing to widespread anxiety and distrust in the technology’s governance.
Both experts and the public are skeptical about the government’s and private companies’ ability to regulate AI responsibly.
Gen Z, highly engaged with AI tools, is particularly anxious about its implications, with nearly half fearing it will harm critical thinking skills.