Surveys show mixed public feelings about AI and jobs

In short: New survey data suggests people feel mixed about AI, and many expect it to reduce jobs rather than create them.

What's going on

A New York Times article pointed to a Gallup poll and said a majority of people in 37 countries were curious or excited about artificial intelligence, more than scared or worried.

But the most relevant survey details paint a more complicated picture. In a 37-country Gallup International survey reported by Euronews, the largest single group, 41%, said they were “equally concerned and excited” about AI in daily life. Another 37% said they were “more concerned than excited,” and the remaining group leaned more toward excitement.

That means the survey does not clearly show that most people are excited overall. Instead, it shows a mixed mood, with concern often slightly ahead of excitement depending on the question.

Jobs are a separate, and more negative, part of the story. The same Euronews report says more people expected AI to lead to fewer jobs than to job creation. A separate Pew survey in 2026 points in the same direction, saying that worldwide, job-loss expectations outweigh job-growth expectations.

What to watch

Expect more debate about what “public support for AI” really means. It can change depending on whether people are thinking about everyday convenience (like a helpful assistant) or about job security (like a new machine in the workplace).

Source: NYTimes