China Sees AI as Job Creator, US Fears Job Losses: Survey

While anxieties about artificial intelligence replacing human jobs dominate discussions in the United States, China exhibits a markedly different public sentiment, with a strong expectation that AI will foster higher-skilled employment.

A recent survey conducted in China revealed that an overwhelming 96% of respondents use AI in their workplaces weekly. Furthermore, nearly a third of Chinese participants believe AI will generate more high-skilled jobs, with less than 10% expressing concern about AI making it harder to find employment. This widespread adoption and general optimism are further reflected in the 79% of respondents who feel university students should be trained to use AI effectively.

“

Despite global anxieties about AI, the Chinese public widely believes AI can support future capabilities and high-value jobs.

Public First, a consulting firm that collaborated on the survey, noted that despite global AI anxieties, the Chinese public widely believes AI can support future capabilities and high-value jobs. The firm observed that the Chinese public is broadly embracing AI in daily life, work, and education, demonstrating considerable confidence in its impact.

In stark contrast, a similar survey in the US indicated a more cautious outlook. 43% of American respondents felt AI's risks exceeded its benefits, and 44% believed AI is developing too rapidly. Nearly half of US respondents anticipated that AI would eliminate more jobs than it creates. This divergence in perception highlights differing national approaches and public readiness for the AI revolution.

“

The key question this survey raises is whether China can gain an edge over other countries in AI readiness.