Only 16 Percent of Americans View AI Positively, Despite Growing Adoption

A Pew Research study reveals that only 16 percent of Americans expect AI to positively impact society over the next 20 years, despite rapidly growing adoption of AI tools like ChatGPT. The majority express skepticism about government regulation and corporate safety practices, with younger adults and women showing particular concern. Yet AI chatbot usage continues to expand, with 44 percent of U.S. adults now using ChatGPT.

Quick Facts

Who

Pew Research

What

Pew Research conducts survey on American attitudes toward AI

When

next 20 years (timeframe for projected impact)

Where

United States

Pew Research conducts survey on American attitudes toward AI
Americans increasingly adopt AI chatbots despite skepticism
Survey reveals demographic differences in AI adoption and sentiment
Pew Research
Americans

A new Pew Research study reveals a stark disconnect between Americans' increasing use of artificial intelligence and their pessimism about its long-term societal impact. Despite AI's growing dominance in the economy and widespread adoption of AI tools, only 16 percent of Americans believe the technology will have a positive impact on society over the next 20 years, while approximately 40 percent expect negative consequences.

The research uncovers deep skepticism about governance and corporate responsibility. A substantial majority—67 percent—doubt the U.S. government will meaningfully regulate AI, while 59 percent distrust companies to develop the technology safely. Young adults under 30 express the most negative sentiment, with only 14 percent believing AI will benefit society. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of Americans believe AI development is progressing too rapidly.

Nevertheless, adoption of AI tools continues to accelerate. About 25 percent of Americans report using AI chatbots daily, primarily for research and work purposes. ChatGPT dominates the chatbot market, with 44 percent of U.S. adults now using OpenAI's platform—more than double the figure from 2023. Other popular chatbots include Gemini (24 percent), Copilot (17 percent), and Meta AI (14 percent), while Grok, Claude, and Character.ai lag considerably. Six in 10 survey respondents regularly read AI-generated internet summaries, reflecting the technology's integration into information consumption.

Notable demographic differences emerge in AI adoption patterns. Men use AI chatbots more frequently than women (27 percent versus 20 percent daily) and express greater enthusiasm for the technology, while women remain more skeptical. Men also show higher usage of alternative chatbots like Copilot and Grok beyond ChatGPT. Conversely, older Americans remain resistant to AI adoption; approximately 75 percent of those aged 65 or older never use AI chatbots, with most citing lack of interest and no intention to adopt the technology.

Why This Matters

This survey reveals a critical trust gap that shapes how Americans will interact with AI regulation, corporate investment, and policy decisions in the coming years. Despite high adoption rates, public skepticism about governance and safety could drive demand for stricter regulation and influence corporate accountability strategies. For businesses, investors, and policymakers, understanding these demographic divisions—particularly younger adults' and women's concerns—is essential for building public confidence and shaping responsible AI development roadmaps.

Timeline & Sources

Jan 1, 2022

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Baseline period for ChatGPT adoption metrics

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Pew Research study on American attitudes toward AI published

Only 16 Percent of Americans View AI Positively, Despite Growing Adoption

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