Artificial intelligence is often hailed by politicians as a driver of economic growth and efficiency, but a new report suggests that skepticism among the public may be holding back its potential.
A joint study from the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI) and Ipsos highlights a significant “trust deficit” in AI. For many, uncertainty and doubt—not lack of access—remain the biggest reasons for hesitation. This reluctance poses a challenge for governments eager to scale up the use of generative AI.
Trust Grows With Experience
The findings reveal a clear divide between people who regularly use AI and those who do not. More than half of respondents reported experimenting with generative AI tools in the past year—a rapid uptake considering the technology’s recent rise.
Yet, nearly half of the population has never used AI in daily life or at work. This lack of experience correlates strongly with suspicion: 56% of non-users see AI as a risk to society, compared with just 26% of weekly users. Familiarity, it seems, leads to greater comfort and confidence.
Generational and professional divides add to the split. Younger people are more likely to see AI positively, while older generations remain cautious. Similarly, workers in technology tend to embrace AI’s potential, whereas those in healthcare or education feel less secure about its impact on their fields.
The Role of Purpose in Shaping Perception
Public opinion also shifts dramatically depending on how AI is applied. The report shows strong support for AI when it is used in areas such as traffic management or medical diagnostics—applications with clear, tangible benefits.
However, acceptance plummets when AI is linked to workplace surveillance or political advertising. These examples highlight that skepticism is less about the technology itself and more about its purpose and oversight.
Building “Justified Trust”
The TBI report emphasizes that restoring confidence in AI requires more than promises of economic growth. Instead, governments and institutions need to focus on what AI means for people’s everyday lives—whether that’s faster hospital appointments, simpler access to public services, or shorter commutes.
Proving that AI delivers real benefits is key. Public trust will grow when people can see evidence of improvements, not just efficiency gains on paper.
The report also stresses the importance of regulation and training. Regulators must have the authority and expertise to enforce standards, while individuals need access to resources that make AI both understandable and safe to use.
The Bigger Picture
Ultimately, public trust in AI is inseparable from trust in the institutions guiding its rollout. By demonstrating a commitment to fairness, transparency, and shared benefits, policymakers and industry leaders could help bridge the confidence gap and ensure AI growth aligns with public interest.
If AI is to fulfill its promise, the path forward will depend not only on innovation but on winning the trust of the people it is meant to serve.
