Stanford University’s annual AI industry report paints a stark picture of a rift between experts and the public. The survey shows growing anxiety over AI’s reach into jobs, healthcare and the economy, with Gen Z leading the wave of skepticism. Half of young people use AI daily or weekly, yet feel less hopeful.

Experts view AI as a net benefit. Stanford data shows 56% of professionals expect a positive impact over the next two decades, while only 10% of Americans feel more excited than concerned. The split deepens in sectors: 84% of experts see medical care improving, compared to just 44% of the public.

Public anxiety spikes when AI threatens livelihoods. Pew Research cited in the report reports that 64% of Americans believe AI will cut jobs in the next twenty years, contrasting with 73% of experts who feel AI will create better work. The stark divergence fuels online backlash, including praise for violent attacks on OpenAI’s CEO.

Regulatory confidence remains low, with only 31% of U.S. respondents trusting government to manage AI responsibly. Meanwhile, 41% think federal rules will fall short, and 27% feel they’ll overreach. Despite fears, global sentiment has nudged up to 59% who see AI’s benefits outweighing drawbacks, a modest rise from 55% in 2024.