A new global survey of 42,151 people across 37 countries reveals widespread anxiety regarding AI's potential to cause job losses and increase income inequality.

A Pew Research survey conducted between February 8 and May 13 indicates that a majority of people across 37 countries view artificial intelligence as a threat to employment. In 34 of the surveyed nations, respondents believe AI is more likely to eliminate jobs than create them over the next two decades. Concerns regarding AI-driven job displacement and income inequality are particularly high in wealthier nations.

Regional and Demographic Trends

Public anxiety is most pronounced in countries such as Australia and South Korea, where 76 percent of respondents fear job losses, and the United States, where 71 percent share this concern. The survey also highlights that individuals in wealthier countries with left-leaning political tendencies are more likely to believe AI will exacerbate the gap between the rich and the poor. Age also plays a significant role in public perception. While older individuals express more concern about AI's impact on daily life, younger adults aged 18 to 34 are increasingly anxious. In nations including Japan, Brazil, Poland, Sweden, Australia, and the US, concern among younger demographics has risen sharply over the past year.

Mixed Public Sentiment

Despite widespread economic fears, the survey found that public sentiment is not entirely negative. A global median of 41 percent of respondents report feeling both concerned and excited about the role of AI in daily life. This compares to 37 percent who are primarily concerned and 13 percent who are primarily excited.