Artificial Intelligence and Concerns About the Future: A Case Study in Norway

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an integral part of our lives with AI systems to revolutionise our daily practices. At the same time, the rapid pace of AI innovations entails inherent risks that can range from cyber-crime to social discrimination. Here, we administered a large scale survey (n = 1298) assessing peoples' concerns and expectations regarding AI's influence on society in the future decade. The AI concerns employed in this study, originate from the "One hundred year study on Artificial Intelligence" project. Taking Norway as a case study, we discuss the participants' prioritisation of concerns for their socio-demographic characteristics. Our findings show a divide in the society; with younger generations to expect a positive impact of AI on our lives in the future decade. More sceptical groups are afraid of structural changes in the economy and job losses, while supporters see opportunities that will improve our life quality. These findings can inform both academics and policymakers that should work closely to ensure fairness, explainability and maintain a trusting relationship between AI and society.