57% of Americans Say AI Is Bad for Society — and Two-Thirds Don't Want More Data Centers
Most Americans Say AI Is Bad for Society, Oppose More Data Centers
An ABC News/Washington Post/Ipsos poll finds a 57% majority of Americans view AI as bad for society, with pessimism strongest among those under 30 (65%). Nearly three-quarters fear AI hacking secure systems, and 65% see a high risk of mass job losses. Two-thirds say the federal government isn't doing enough to regulate AI, and 66% oppose new data centers nationally — rising to 72% when one is proposed in their own community.
Just 2% say it is "extremely" good for society while 17% say it is extremely bad for society.
- platinumrad
Not surprising when Sam keeps on talking about how his AI is going to take your job and Dario counters by saying his AI is going to kill you.
- cdrnsf
Most Americans would be correct.
- Art9681
I get these surveys in the mail and promptly toss them in the garbage. The people willing to spend their precious time on them are probably the ones whose opinions matter the least.
I encourage you to read "About the Study".
"Ipsos conducted sampling, interviewing and tabulation for the survey using the KnowledgePanel, a nationwide survey panel designed to be representative of the U.S. adult population. KnowledgePanel members are recruited through probability sampling methods using address-based sampling. Panel members who do not have internet access are provided with a tablet and internet service. KnowledgePanel members receive a per survey incentive, usually the equivalent of $1 (though for some it is $2) in points that can be redeemed for cash or prizes."
- bezier-curve
I think for me at least, my main concern with data centers is the energy fueling them and the air pollution. It's not fair to buy up property around residential areas and force portable natural gas turbine emissions into people's lives. We need these powered by renewable energy at minimum.
- fennecbutt
I've seen interesting points made on this topic. Like how on the whole China/Asia poll more favourably in public perception and adoption of AI.
I'm still skeptical that the source of Western dissent is misinformation campaigns run by said Asiatic bloc, though.