Americans and AI Experts Split on Artificial Intelligence’s Future Impact

As AI continues to reshape industries and daily life, a new Pew Research Center report reveals sharp contrasts — and surprising similarities — between how U.S. adults and AI experts view the technology’s future.

The Pew AI study, conducted in 2024, found that AI experts are significantly more optimistic than the general public about the long-term impact of AI. While 56% of experts believe AI will positively affect the U.S. over the next 20 years, only 17% of Americans share that view. Similarly, nearly half of the experts say they are more excited than concerned about AI in daily life, compared to just 11% of the public.

Despite their optimism, experts also share key concerns with the public. Both groups want more personal control over AI and are worried about insufficient government oversight. Roughly 55% of U.S. adults and 57% of experts support tighter control, and the majority of both groups say they’re more concerned that regulation will be too lax than too strict.

Job Loss and Economic Uncertainty Fuel Public Anxiety

Job security remains a flashpoint of the Pew AI study. While 73% of experts predict a positive impact of AI on work, only 23% of the public agrees. A full 64% of Americans believe AI will lead to fewer jobs in the next two decades. The fear extends across professions, with most seeing roles like cashiers and factory workers at risk.

Even among experts, concerns remain. One noted: “When people start to get replaced by technology, it’s always going to affect those underrepresented groups first.”

Shared Concerns Over AI Bias and Representation

Both groups express high concern over AI spreading misinformation, data misuse, and bias in decision-making in the Pew AI study. Bias in AI design — especially underrepresentation of women and minorities — remains a top issue. According to Pew, 75% of experts believe men’s views are better reflected in AI systems, but only 44% say the same for women.

“It’s mainly straight White men or men of color who are really investing and excited about these technologies,” said one Black expert, “but those underrepresented get affected first.”

Regulation: Mutual Distrust in Government and Industry

Confidence in responsible AI development is low across the board in the Pew AI study. 62% of Americans and 53% of experts say they lack confidence in the government’s ability to regulate AI effectively. Experts in academia are especially skeptical, with 60% expressing little to no faith in corporate responsibility.

“I don’t know that I have faith they’d be able to bring on enough experts to regulate it,” said one expert from a university. Despite different outlooks, the message is clear: Americans and AI experts alike see the need for greater oversight, accountability, and inclusivity as AI becomes more embedded in society.