Paradox: More people use AI than ever — and trust it less than ever
What it really says
73% of Americans have used AI tools, but 76% rarely or only sometimes trust the results. 55% believe AI will harm their daily life more than help. 70% expect fewer job opportunities due to AI. Only 6% are 'very enthusiastic'.
Our assessment
This paradox is actually healthy: People use AI because it's useful — but they question the results. That's exactly the right attitude. Problematic would be blind trust OR total refusal. Reality lies in between, and that's apparently where most people are.
Relevance for Germany
Skepticism in Germany is traditionally even stronger. The Pew data shows: Americans aren't naive AI fans either. Critical usage is the global trend.
Fact check
The Pew study is based on a representative survey of 12,000+ US adults. The Quinnipiac poll confirms the trend with similar numbers.
Source
- • Pew Research Center 12.03.2026
- • Quinnipiac University Poll 03/2026
- • TechCrunch Analysis