Are skepticism and moderation dominating attitudes toward AI-based technologies

Bibliographic Data

ID2786403
AuthorsV Oprea (0000-0002-9005-5181, Department of Economic Informatics and Cybernetics Bucharest University of Economics Bucharest Romania), Ionut Nica (0000-0003-2118-3654, Department of Economic Informatics and Cybernetics Bucharest University of Economics Bucharest Romania, corresponding author), Adela Bâra (0000-0002-0961-352X, Department of Economic Informatics and Cybernetics Bucharest University of Economics Bucharest Romania), Irina‐alexandra Georgescu (0000-0002-8536-5636, Department of Economic Informatics and Cybernetics Bucharest University of Economics Bucharest Romania)
Year2024
Volume83
Issue3
Pages567-607
Publication date2024-05-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueAmerican Journal of Economics and Sociology (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0002-9246 • E-ISSN: 1536-7150
PublisherWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1111/ajes.12565
OpenAlexW4392137597
LanguageEN
Citations received10
References cited48

AI advancements are poised to substantially modify human abilities in the foreseeable future. They include the integration of Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) to augment cognitive functions, the application of gene editing, and the utilization of AI-powered robotic exoskeletons to enhance physical strength. This study employs a comprehensive analytical framework combining factor analysis, clustering, ANOVA, and logistic regression to investigate public attitudes toward these transformative technologies. Our findings reveal three distinct clusters of public opinion reflecting varying optimism and concern toward AI technologies. Cluster 1 (1574 participants) held a positive view with high excitement while Cluster 2 (1334 participants) showed a balanced stance. Cluster 3 (2199 participants) expressed heightened concern despite some excitement. Notably, regional disparities, particularly between urban and rural participants, emerge as a prominent factor influencing these attitudes (ANOVA, F = 15.2, p < 0.001). Furthermore, logistic regression identifies key influencers of public perception, highlighting the significant roles played by religion and regional factors. The implications of these findings extend beyond understanding public sentiment. They underscore the need for informed policies that promote education and awareness about AI technologies, address ethical concerns, and engage the public in decision-making processes. As society navigates this transformative technological landscape, a nuanced understanding of public attitudes becomes paramount, guiding ethical regulation, innovation, and public engagement strategies. This study provides valuable insights into the intricate dynamics surrounding AI acceptance and highlights the importance of adapting measures to evolving perceptions and attitudes among the general public

Business · Cognition · Developmental psychology · Emerging technologies · Moderation · Perception · Political science · Public opinion · Public relations · Skepticism · Transformative learning · Variance (accounting) · Artificial Intelligence · Behavioral Health and Interventions · Computer Science · Misinformation and Its Impacts · Psychology · Psychology of Moral and Emotional Judgment · Social Psychology

Tools

Open DOI