Why People Resist Embracing AI by Julian De Freitas - HBR
- nurysotelo4
- Feb 17
- 2 min read
Artificial intelligence is everywhere, and companies know it’s the future. But here’s the catch: while 79% of corporate strategists say AI is critical to success, only 20% actually use it daily. Why? Because people don’t trust it.
AI has a major PR problem. Most people fear it will steal jobs, misuse their data, or even turn against humanity (thanks, sci-fi movies!). But here’s the truth: AI isn’t the enemy—it’s a powerful tool waiting for us to unlock its potential.
Researchers have spent years studying why people hesitate to embrace AI, and it comes down to five key reasons:
AI Feels Like a Black Box – People don’t like what they don’t understand. If AI is making decisions, we want to know why. The more companies explain how AI works—especially in simple terms—the more we’ll trust it.
AI Seems Emotionless – We like human connections. AI, on the other hand, feels cold and robotic. But when companies give AI human-like traits (think Alexa or Siri), people are more likely to engage with it.
AI Feels Too Rigid – Unlike humans, AI doesn’t “learn from mistakes”… or does it? Some companies, like Netflix, show how their AI improves over time, reassuring users that the technology adapts and grows.
AI Feels Too Autonomous – We don’t like the idea of machines running the show. People are more comfortable using AI when they have some control, like customizing smart home devices or giving AI input before it makes decisions.
People Prefer Humans – Even if AI can do a job well, people still want human interaction. That’s why businesses need to balance AI and human touch, especially in customer service roles.
So, what does this mean for YOU?
AI is not just a tool for businesses—it’s an opportunity for YOU to level up. The future belongs to those who learn how to use AI to their advantage. You have the fire in you to become anything you want. Don’t let fear hold you back. Dive into the full article to learn how to navigate the AI revolution like a pro!
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