South Middlesex Times

A recent survey conducted by Rutgers University-New Brunswick highlights public concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) and its growing role in everyday life. The survey reveals that over half of the respondents are worried about AI's influence on politics (58%) and news media (53%). Researchers attribute these concerns to potential misinformation and manipulation, especially during the 2024 election cycle when the survey was conducted.

The study is part of the National AI Opinion Monitor (NAIOM), a long-term project led by Rutgers to track public attitudes toward AI. It indicates that 41% of Americans believe AI harms more than it helps in protecting personal information.

Despite apprehensions, one-third of Americans have used generative AI for health-related inquiries, highlighting both opportunities and challenges as these technologies develop. Generative AI refers to advanced technologies enabling machines to perform tasks requiring human-like intelligence, such as creating original content like text, images, audio, and video.

Researchers surveyed nearly 5,000 people between October 25 and November 8 about their AI usage and perceptions across different demographic groups. Katherine Ognyanova, an associate professor at Rutgers School of Communication and Information and coauthor of the report, stated that understanding how Americans use and perceive AI is crucial for shaping its adoption, development, and regulation. "We are at a pivotal moment where public opinion about AI is being formed," she noted.

Vivek Singh, another coauthor and associate professor at Rutgers School of Communication with expertise in AI fairness, remarked on the rapid pace of AI development: "Today, AI is no longer confined to the algorithms of tech companies; it has become an integral part of everyday life."

The survey found that more than half of Americans (53%) have used generative AI services like ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot. However, there are notable knowledge gaps: while 90% have heard of AI, only 51% recognize "generative AI," and just 12% are familiar with "large language models."

Demographic disparities exist as well; younger males with higher education levels show more interest in using AI tools. Approval varies by task—48% support using AI for household chores but majorities disapprove when it comes to surgery (57%) or driving vehicles (53%).

Ognyanova pointed out potential equity issues: "Older Americans and those with lower educational attainment may be less likely to benefit from these tools." This could create a new digital divide.

The NAIOM survey establishes baseline data on American perceptions and uses of generative AI. The researchers plan national surveys three times annually to track changes over time with a sample including diverse demographics. Future reports will examine themes like trust in AI-generated content, regulation impacts on jobs among others.

Singh emphasized their interest in evaluating how people assess information from both human or nonhuman sources: “We’ve consulted with experts and hope to expand our advisory board.”

Rutgers hopes NAIOM will serve policymakers by providing data-driven insights into evolving societal roles played by artificial intelligence.

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