Public Trust Crisis Slows AI Adoption: Report Finds Nearly Half of Population Holds Back

Public Trust Deficit Hinders AI Growth: Report Reveals A new report by the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI) and Ipsos has shed light on a major hurdle in the adoption of generative AI: public trust deficit. The study, released in September 2025, found that nearly half of the country is hesitant to use these tools due to lack of faith in their reliability. According to the report, over 55% of respondents have used generative AI tools in the last year, indicating a rapid adoption rate. However, this enthusiasm is tempered by concerns about data security and bias, with many fearing that AI systems may perpetuate existing social inequalities. "The public trust deficit is a major obstacle for AI growth," said Dr. Rachel Kim, lead author of the report. "Our research shows that people are not just concerned about the technology itself but also about its potential impact on society." The TBI-Ipsos study surveyed over 1,000 participants and found that trust in AI increases with usage. However, this trend is reversed for those who have had negative experiences or concerns about data security. Background research suggests that public trust deficit is not unique to generative AI but a broader societal issue. A recent survey by the Pew Research Center found that 63% of Americans are concerned about the impact of AI on employment, while 55% worry about its potential for bias and discrimination. Experts attribute this skepticism to a lack of transparency and accountability in AI development. "The public needs to understand how these systems work and who is responsible for their deployment," said Dr. Kim. The report's findings have significant implications for policymakers and industry leaders. As governments and companies invest heavily in AI research, they must also address the public's concerns about trust and accountability. In response to the report, the UK government has announced plans to establish an independent AI watchdog to oversee the development and deployment of these technologies. As the AI revolution continues to gain momentum, it is clear that addressing the public trust deficit will be crucial for its long-term success. By prioritizing transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, policymakers and industry leaders can build a more trustworthy relationship with the public and unlock the full potential of generative AI. Note: The report's findings are based on a survey of over 1,000 participants in the UK. The study was conducted by the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI) and Ipsos, and the results were released in September 2025. *Reporting by Artificialintelligence-news.*