AI is feared globally as the destroyer of jobs
Pew Research's survey of 42,151 people in 37 countries finds majorities in 34 countries expect AI to cause job losses within 20 years.
Pew Research surveyed 42,151 adults across 37 countries between February 8 and May 13, 2026, on attitudes toward AI. In 34 of 37 countries, respondents are more likely to believe AI will lead to job losses than job creation over the next 20 years, with the highest worry in Australia (76%), South Korea (76%), and the US (71%). A global median of 41% feel both concerned and excited about AI's growing role, versus 37% primarily concerned. Anxiety among 18-34 year-olds about AI-driven job loss and inequality has risen sharply over the past year in countries including the US, Sweden, and Japan.
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