Third of university students in Great Britain think AI job losses will cause social unrest, poll finds
A recent survey reveals that one-third of university students in Great Britain believe AI job losses could lead to social unrest. While students are heavy users of AI, they express significant concerns about its economic impact, with many fearing job losses will exceed those of a typical recession. The findings highlight a gap in how well universities are preparing students for an AI-influenced job market.
- ▪One in three university students think AI will trigger civil unrest due to job losses.
- ▪77% of students use AI at least a few times a month, compared to 46% of workers.
- ▪Only 24% of the public view AI positively, while 52% of male students do.
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People attend a jobs fair in London. Only 24% of the members of public surveyed thought AI was a positive thing for humanity. Photograph: Susannah Ireland/The GuardianView image in fullscreenPeople attend a jobs fair in London. Only 24% of the members of public surveyed thought AI was a positive thing for humanity. Photograph: Susannah Ireland/The GuardianAI (artificial intelligence)Third of university students in Great Britain think AI job losses will cause social unrest, poll findsTracker of attitudes towards artificial intelligence also finds almost half of the public would prefer to avoid itSally Weale Education correspondentMon 18 May 2026 19.01 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleOne in three university students think AI will wipe out jobs so rapidly it will trigger civil unrest,…
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