Unlocking society's standings in artificial intelligence

Abstract

This study regards AI as a socioecological issue and highlights the social identity determinants of the social perceptions of AI, which is the main dependent variable. We analyze Greece in 2022 as a case study. Our findings suggest that specific social identity variables concerning fundamental and social values, such as religion, views on new technologies, economic and political standings, and education, impact social perceptions of AI in a positive or negative manner. To enhance the analysis, we independently analyze the social identity framework shaping the relationship between jobs and AI, and the need to scientifically verify the results of AI technologies with an expert. Overall, social views of AI are shaped by the influence of a composite portfolio of fundamental and social values (which reflect both social stability and adaptability to change), economic and political standings, and demographics. Therefore, the social understanding of AI, along with other major issues, relates to its complex cultural dimensions. The findings go beyond the superficial understanding of the qualities AI should have since they underline the importance of existing institutional and value systems in the design of appropriate policies to combat the negative consequences, or capitalize on the benefits of such technologies.