Gen Z's sentiment toward artificial intelligence has shifted dramatically, with excitement dropping from 36% to 22% over the past year, according to a new survey from the Walton Family Foundation, GSV Ventures and Gallup. The share expressing hope fell from 27% to 18%, while anger increased from 22% to 31%.
The growing negativity appears driven by concerns about AI's impact on entry-level job prospects, particularly affecting the oldest members of Generation Z who are entering the workforce. Gallup researcher Zach Hrynowski suggests Gen Z, as digital natives, may be more acutely aware of AI's threats compared to mid-career professionals who view it as a useful tool.