A recent study by web design company Digital Silk has revealed that Massachusetts is the state most concerned about artificial intelligence (AI) in the United States. The study utilized Google (NASDAQ:GOOGL) search data to analyze the frequency of searches related to AI skepticism across various states, comparing them against population numbers to determine the level of wariness.
Massachusetts topped the list with 520 average monthly searches per 100,000 residents for terms indicating unease with AI, which is 48.5% higher than the national average of 350 searches. California and New York followed closely, with 507 and 499 searches respectively, both significantly above the national average.
The research, which included 341 AI-related search terms such as "AI detection" and "Chat GPT detector," aimed to gauge public sentiment towards the technology. Searches for tools like "Nightshade AI," which is used to disrupt AI data models, were also included, suggesting a proactive approach by some residents to minimize AI's influence in their lives.
The findings come amid growing discussions about the impact of AI on various aspects of society, including job markets, intellectual property, and online trustworthiness. Gabriel Shaoolian, CEO & Founder of Digital Silk, commented on the study's implications, noting the increasing prevalence of AI and the potential concerns it raises, such as plagiarism and the effect on creative industries.
Rounding out the top ten states expressing caution towards AI were New Jersey, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Virginia, Maryland, Washington, and Utah. These states all registered search frequencies above the national average, indicating a widespread wariness of AI across the country.
The methodology behind the study involved combining the average monthly search volumes for each term related to AI skepticism and dividing them by the state population figures. The data, correct as of February 29, 2024, was sourced from Google Keyword Planner and the U.S. Census Bureau.
This analysis provides a snapshot of the current sentiment towards AI across the United States, based on a press release statement. It is a reflection of the concerns held by residents in various states, highlighting the need for ongoing dialogue and consideration of the ethical implications of AI technology.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.