Public opinion toward artificial intelligence is sharply divided, with many people expressing strong disapproval while simultaneously increasing their use of the technology. A startup CEO recently described his company as “self-loathing,” reflecting a broader sentiment that the technology is being pushed too aggressively. This dynamic creates a widespread love/hate relationship with AI tools.
Fear and Skepticism
Surveys indicate growing concern about the impact of AI. According to the Pew Research Center, more adults in the United States expect a negative impact on society and personally than expect a positive one. Pessimism is particularly strong among younger demographics. Stanford University reports that more than half of people worldwide feel nervous when using AI products and services. Gallup polling showed that 71% of US adults would oppose a new AI data center in their area, far more than the 53% who said they would oppose a new nuclear power plant.
Public sentiment often ranks AI less favorably than immigration and customs enforcement, according to an NBC poll. The skepticism reflects worries about the technology’s role in society and the rapid pace of its adoption.
Rapid Adoption Despite Concerns
Despite these fears, the number of people using AI is rising sharply. ChatGPT reached one billion monthly users in May, and Google DeepMind’s Gemini logged 950 million users in July. Pew Research data indicates that half of US adults now say they use a chatbot, more than double the number from 2023. One in four people reports using these tools daily. Globally, more than a third of adults across the 38 OECD countries have used generative AI tools within the last three months. This widespread usage creates a feedback loop where familiarity grows even as trust erodes.
Who Is to Blame?
There are signs of a different trajectory this time around. Unlike the early days of social media, there is significant political appetite for regulation. All 50 US states have passed or proposed laws governing AI development, resulting in more than 2,100 bills nationwide—a tenfold increase in three years. Additionally, top-tier open-source alternatives to major commercial models are now available, offering potential for more consumer choice and market pressure. This fragmentation of the market provides a counterweight to the dominance of major tech giants.
