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[FCE] More Britons view AI as economic risk than opportunity, Tony Blair thinktank finds | Artificial intelligence (AI) | The Guardian

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Artificial Intelligence (AI), which refers to computer systems capable of performing tasks typically done by humans, such as problem-solving and decision-making, is becoming a major topic of debate in the UK. A recent survey by the Tony Blair Institute, a prominent research organization, has highlighted a growing concern among Britons about the impact of AI on the economy. Of the 3,700 adults surveyed, 38% believe that AI poses a risk to jobs and economic stability, nearly double the 20% who see it as an opportunity for positive change. This widespread skepticism presents a significant challenge to the UK government’s ambitious plans to position the country as a global leader in AI technology.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has boldly stated that Britain aims to become an ‘AI superpower,’ with the goal of integrating AI into various aspects of daily life. However, public fears, particularly about job losses, could hinder this vision. Experts from the Tony Blair Institute estimate that AI might replace between 1 and 3 million private sector jobs in the UK. While new roles could emerge as a result of this technological shift, the anxiety surrounding unemployment remains high, especially among those unfamiliar with AI. Interestingly, the survey found that people who regularly use AI are less concerned, with only 25% of them viewing it as a threat.

The UK’s aspirations come at a time when AI technology is advancing rapidly worldwide. While countries like the US and China dominate in developing AI systems, the UK seeks to distinguish itself by focusing on the practical application of this technology. Yet, without public trust, achieving this goal could prove difficult. Jakob Mökander, a director at the institute, stressed the importance of building confidence through responsible regulation and by demonstrating AI’s benefits, such as improving workplace efficiency or shortening waiting times in healthcare.

The implications of these survey results are far-reaching. If the government fails to address public concerns, the UK risks falling behind in the global race to harness AI effectively. To counter this, initiatives are already underway to enhance AI skills among workers, with a target of 10 million people using AI in their jobs by 2035. Nevertheless, winning over a skeptical public remains a formidable challenge for the government as it strives to balance innovation with economic security.

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1. What is the main concern among Britons about AI according to the survey?

  • A. It is too complex to understand.
  • B. It could harm jobs and the economy.
  • C. It is not being developed quickly enough.
  • D. It will replace government services.

2. How does the UK government view the future of AI in the country?

  • A. As a minor part of technological progress.
  • B. As a threat to national security.
  • C. As a key area to become a global leader.
  • D. As a temporary trend with little impact.

3. What do experts predict about the impact of AI on jobs in the UK?

  • A. It will create more jobs than it replaces.
  • B. It could eliminate up to 3 million private sector jobs.
  • C. It will only affect public sector employment.
  • D. It will have no significant effect on employment.

4. How does familiarity with AI influence people’s opinions, based on the survey?

  • A. Regular users are more worried about AI than non-users.
  • B. Non-users are completely unaware of AI’s risks.
  • C. Regular users are less likely to see AI as a threat.
  • D. Both users and non-users share the same level of concern.

5. What does Jakob Mökander suggest the government should do to build trust in AI?

  • A. Focus on slowing down AI development.
  • B. Regulate AI responsibly and show its benefits.
  • C. Ignore public concerns to prioritize innovation.
  • D. Limit AI use to specific industries only.