European perceptions of artificial intelligence and their social variability. An exploratory study

Abstract

We are currently living in societies that are profoundly concerned about the impact of current and potential technologies on our present and future lives. How is the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI) impact perceived in the general population of the European Union? How are its effects evaluated as regards the job markets? These are just two questions that require, from the general public, an exercise of information and also an exercise of the imagination. A survey is a useful instrument to collect these public perceptions for in-depth analysis of the respective societies. This paper is based on a secondary study of a 2021 Eurobarometer survey that provides insights into the perceived future impact of AI and the social sources of its variability. It reveals evolving aspects about AI's perception that help us better understand ourselves. The identified trends, relationships, as well as the lack of some expected correlations, offer useful information for various stakeholders interested in the social life of AI.