Most Americans Are Growing More Uneasy With Artificial Intelligence

Growing Concern About AI: Nearly half of American adults express more concern than excitement about artificial intelligence, signaling a steady increase in unease over several years.
Trend of Increasing Concern: The percentage rose from 37% in 2021 to 50% in June 2025, with the trend being linked to the growing visibility of AI tools.
Public Opinion on AI’s Impact: Americans are notably optimistic about AI’s positive impact on medical care (44%) but are much more skeptical about its effects on work and education (23% and 24% respectively).
Limited Workplace Adoption of AI: Despite growing headlines about AI in workplaces, only 21% of American workers reported using AI tools in their jobs in September 2025, with 65% still not using it at all.
Caution Amidst Familiarity: The rise in concern coincides with increased exposure to AI, indicating that familiarity does not equate to comfort and that people are growing more cautious as they observe AI’s development.
Distinctions in Perspectives: Public skepticism does not apply universally; there is nuanced optimism particularly in healthcare, highlighting contextual influence on American attitudes.