More and more people believe that AI will take away jobs rather than create new ones

A recent Pew Research Center survey reveals that many worldwide expect artificial intelligence to result in fewer jobs rather than more over the next two decades. The survey included responses from 37 countries, with 34 showing a greater inclination to believe AI will lead to job losses. Concerns are especially prominent in wealthier nations. For instance, in Sweden, skepticism towards AI has increased by nine percentage points within a year. This is the greatest rise among the countries measured over time.

The apprehension about job displacement due to AI is not limited to any age group in Sweden; both younger and older individuals have become more concerned. In the United States, 71% of respondents anticipates AI will lead to fewer jobs within the next 20 years, while only 5% foresee increased employment opportunities. Australians expressed the most pessimistic outlook, with 76% predicting AI-induced job losses outweighing gains.

Conversely, those most optimistic about AI's impact on jobs are from Nigeria and the Philippines, with just 26% anticipating job losses to surpass job creation.

Economic inequality is a major concern worldwide, with fewer than a quarter of respondents in any of the 37 countries believing AI will reduce inequality. However, the perception of AI is not exclusively negative. The global median indicates that 41% of people feel roughly equal parts concern and enthusiasm about the technology. Engaged individuals who have been exposed to information about AI tend to have a more favorable view of it.