A recent survey conducted by Axios/Morning Consult has highlighted significant gender disparities in attitudes towards artificial intelligence (AI), with a majority of women expressing concerns over its impact on their children and personal well-being. The survey found that 53% of women would not allow their children to use AI products, compared to only 26% of men. Additionally, only 4% of women were open to letting their offspring use AI chatbots, while 31% of men were comfortable with the idea.
These findings are consistent with research from the Pew Research Center, which indicates that women are more apprehensive than men about the use of AI in medical diagnoses and treatments. Experts believe that this gender gap in AI perception can be attributed to three main factors: fears about economic security, personal security, and the disruptions caused by rapid technological change.
Economic concerns are particularly pronounced among women, who are worried about the potential job losses and transformations that AI might bring. Research from the McKinsey Global Institute suggests that AI-induced job cuts will disproportionately affect women without college degrees, who are overrepresented in entry-level positions most vulnerable to automation.
Personal security fears are also prominent, with the rise of “fake nude” and “revenge porn” incidents primarily targeting women. The digitalization of crime has led to an increase in online financial fraud, identity theft, and harassment, further exacerbating women’s concerns about their safety in the digital age.
The disruptions caused by megachange, including shifts in business models and organizational structures, add to the unease. Women worry about the potential negative consequences of these changes on their well-being and that of their families.
In response to these concerns, experts are calling for proactive measures to address women’s fears about AI and other emerging technologies. This includes improving women’s representation in science and technology fields, enacting laws to protect against gender-specific digital crimes and ensuring equitable workforce policies to mitigate the impacts of technological disruptions.
As AI continues to shape our world, it is crucial for policymakers, business leaders, and tech innovators to take women’s concerns seriously and work towards creating a more inclusive and secure digital future
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