Will AI make life less meaningful? A survey finds optimism hinges on whether humans keep control.

OpenAI announced its latest AI model solving over 100 math problems in weeks, sparking concern among mathematicians about the future of their field. A national survey by Archbridge Institute's Human Flourishing Lab found that Americans are more likely to view AI as a threat to meaning (56%) than as a support (44%). This view depends on whether people see AI as a tool under human control or a potentially autonomous technology.

Discussions surrounding AI often focus on practical impacts like job loss, cyberattacks, and breakthroughs, but psychological effects on meaning have received less attention. Humans are inherently existential beings seeking significance, and a strong sense of meaning contributes to psychological well-being, physical health, and longevity.

As AI increasingly engages in various human activities, such as coding, art creation, and problem-solving, its role in shaping meaning becomes crucial. The survey divided participants between two views on AI's impact on meaning: one where AI enhances meaning by enriching relationships, work, and purpose-driven pursuits, and the other where AI diminishes meaning by taking over decision-making, leading to reduced personal involvement.

The majority, 56%, believe AI undermines meaning, while 44% see it as supportive. Furthermore, people's views on AI's impact on meaning align with their perception of its nature: 63% of those who view AI as human-directed believe it will support meaningful lives, whereas 27% of those who foresee AI becoming autonomous share this optimism.

This strong connection between AI's perceived autonomy and its potential impact on meaning suggests that people find greater significance when they believe they retain control over AI. This resilience and adaptability in the face of technological disruption highlight the human capacity to innovate and find new ways to contribute meaningfully to the world.