With Wider Use, The Dangers Of AI Become Apparent To More People

Concerns over artificial intelligence are becoming increasingly widespread, particularly among younger generations who are frequent users of generative AI. A recent Gallup poll conducted in the US found that 51 percent of Gen Z respondents who use AI weekly have grown more negative towards the technology over the past year. Despite their regular engagement, these users expressed doubts about AI’s ability to enhance creativity or critical thinking, with many fearing it could undermine learning. Those in the workforce also reported lower trust in AI-assisted outputs compared to purely human work, suggesting a growing scepticism about the technology’s benefits. This shift in attitude runs counter to typical patterns observed with new technologies, where younger people tend to be more enthusiastic adopters. Bloomberg highlighted this unusual trend, noting that older generations usually harbour more fears about emerging tech, while younger ones embrace it. However, the Gallup study’s lead researcher, John Protzko, explained that anxiety about AI is often highest among non-users, who view it as intimidating or dangerous. Even among heavy AI users within Gen Z, optimism is waning as they encounter the technology’s frequent inaccuracies and limitations, raising concerns about overreliance on AI in professional settings, especially at the expense of early-career workers. Meanwhile, older adults appear to be engaging with AI in ways that raise different issues, particularly around addiction and social isolation. Commentators like Lloyd Alter and retired journalist Stephen Yoder have observed that retirees, with ample free time, may be especially vulnerable to becoming absorbed in AI-powered chatbots and social media. This demographic’s susceptibility echoes longstanding worries about digital addiction, but with AI’s rapid rise and ease of use, the risk of compulsive behaviour is intensifying. Experts draw parallels between AI interactions and addictive habits, warning that the technology’s seductive appeal could deepen social disconnection. Recent research has identified distinct patterns of AI addiction, including escapist roleplay, emotional attachment to chatbots, and compulsive information-seeking, known as the epistemic rabbit hole. These behaviours suggest that generative AI can foster intense and sometimes unhealthy engagement, differing from previous digital addictions by its interactive and creative nature. As AI becomes more embedded in daily life, understanding and addressing these risks will be crucial to mitigating potential harms while harnessing its benefits. The evolving public perception and emerging challenges signal a need for ongoing scrutiny and responsible development in the AI landscape.