People are uncomfortable with AI replacing human judgement for high-stakes decisions

• Despite growing adoption of AI tools by organisations, public understanding and use remain low, particularly among some demographic groups
• The public sees AI as benefiting some groups more than others, with more currently perceiving AI as a risk than an opportunity overall
• People are open to AI assisting humans but uncomfortable with it replacing human judgement for high-stakes decisions

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing the world around us, presenting both exciting possibilities and significant challenges. While public awareness of AI is nearly universal, a new report by Ipsos reveals that understanding of this transformative technology remains limited. This knowledge gap is particularly pronounced among certain demographics, including women, older generations, and those with lower levels of education. This disparity raises concerns about a potential digital divide, where those less familiar with AI risk being left behind as it becomes increasingly integrated into various aspects of life.

Public perceptions

Rather than viewing AI as inherently positive or negative, people tend to assess AI based on its specific applications and potential impact on society. While there is broad support for AI in areas like healthcare and traffic management, applications that could potentially erode trust, such as the creation of misleading content or replacing human judgment in high-stakes decisions, are met with considerable discomfort. 

Workforce

When considering the workforce,  only a small percentage of workers currently fear being replaced by AI in the near future, however a significant majority anticipate AI being integrated into their roles within the next few years. This anticipation is accompanied by a desire for more information and training on how to effectively work alongside AI.  Upskilling and reskilling initiatives to ensure workers are equipped to thrive in an AI-driven job market are particularly crucial for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which may require tailored support to overcome resource limitations and successfully adopt AI technologies.

Public trust

People express varying levels of confidence in different entities using AI, with hospitals and healthcare providers enjoying higher levels of trust compared to government institutions. This underscores the importance of building trust through transparent communication, robust regulatory frameworks, and demonstrable commitment to ethical AI practices.

What next?

Policymakers, regulators, businesses, and the public all have a role to play in shaping the future of AI. By prioritizing ethical considerations, promoting transparency, and fostering dialogue, stakeholders can work together to harness the transformative power of AI while mitigating potential risks.
 

Technical note: 

This report is based on the online responses of 5,098 panellists (UK adults, aged 16+) carried out between 14 and 20 September 2023, and of 5,150 panellists (UK adults, aged 16+) carried out between 21 and 27 March 2024.