Result
At a time when the use of ChatGPT and similar programmes continues to increase, the development of artificial intelligence is the subject of controversial debate. A slight majority (54%) of the population expects AI to bring major changes to life in the future and considers developments in this field to be groundbreaking for the future.
A further third (38%) expect a moderate impact, while eight per cent have reservations about the relevance of artificial intelligence for the future.
Irrespective of the belief in the ability to exert influence, the population is very divided on another topic. One in two people do not believe that Germany is well prepared for the challenges posed by AI and will be able to master them.
Reasons
For those who expect only minor changes through AI, the current state of AI technology is not yet mature enough to bring about real change. For them, human intelligence and creativity are still irreplaceable and AI is seen as a supporting tool, if at all.
Citizens who expect mediocre changes through AI see the future influence of AI as evolutionary rather than revolutionary. They are often concerned about ethical and social implications, which is why they see regulation and control as necessary. Accordingly, they do not expect any fundamental changes, but rather utilisation in selected areas that improve life.
For AI optimists, the question is not if, but only when artificial intelligence will have a major impact on life. For them, it's no longer just about self-driving trams and underground trains, medical diagnostics or personalised recommendation systems - they expect completely new possibilities for interaction and progress. Accordingly, they see AI as a turning point in human history and the way we work, live and think.
The disagreement on the question of whether Germany is well or poorly prepared for a future characterised by AI shows the division in the country. Many consider Germany to be well positioned due to its good research and educational institutions, its innovative companies and its political support - including in terms of data protection and ethical standards.
The sceptics, on the other hand, see the lack of investment compared to other countries, the shortage of skilled workers, difficulties in integrating AI into traditional industries and the slow bureaucracy and regulation that slows down innovation.
Forecast
In companies, artificial intelligence will optimise processes, support decision-making and enable new solutions. At the same time, however, debates relating to the challenges will become more important. Issues surrounding data protection, ethical guidelines and the potential impact on the labour market will be discussed and require a balanced approach.
Overall, the development of AI will have a noticeable impact on society, whereby the direction that is taken in the future and the resulting effects will depend heavily on the decisions and measures that are taken in the coming years. Accordingly, it is crucial to drive these developments forward with a conscious eye on opportunities and risks in order to make the best possible use of AI's potential while minimising potential negative consequences.
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