Why the AI Backlash is Intensifying: Understanding the Growing Concerns

Before Duolingo pulled its videos from TikTok and Instagram in May, the app enjoyed a lively presence on social media. Its green owl mascot became a hit with younger users, and its marketing success attracted attention from various brands.

However, when Duolingo announced it would shift to become an "AI-first" company, replacing some contractor roles with AI automation, public sentiment took a nosedive. Many users, particularly younger ones, expressed their anger online. Some even deleted the app, risking their hard-earned streaks. The primary concern? Job loss due to automation.

This negative reaction reflects a broader trend. Although tools like ChatGPT are increasingly popular, many people are starting to push back against AI’s growing presence in daily life. This resistance underscores a growing discomfort with technology taking over human roles.

Duolingo’s spokesperson stated that AI isn’t replacing their staff outright. Instead, the goal is to use AI under the guidance of learning experts. But this approach aligns with a larger shift in the tech industry. Companies like Klarna and Salesforce also hint at reducing hiring due to automation, especially in customer service.

The worries about AI don’t just revolve around job security. Issues like the potential for error-ridden outputs, environmental impacts, and risks to mental health are rising. For example, professionals in creative fields have voiced concerns about their work being used without permission to train AI systems. This caught fire during recent events like the Hollywood writers’ strike and ongoing copyright lawsuits.

Public sentiment is clearly shifting. There’s a growing sense of unease towards AI. Brian Merchant, a former WIRED contributor, points out that there’s now a palpable mistrust of AI systems. He compares the situation to past movements where workers resisted technology that threatened their jobs.

In summary, while automation can offer potential benefits, it’s crucial to balance it with human involvement and ethical considerations. The conversation around AI is evolving, and it seems people are more inclined to support those whose jobs might be at risk than to embrace unbridled technological advancement.

For more insights on automation and its impact, check out resources from trusted sources like The Verge or Adweek.

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artificial intelligence,machine learning,chatgpt,chatbots