Artificial intelligence, often heralded as a transformative force in modern society, is viewed with skepticism and concern by many marginalized Americans. A recent study conducted by the University of Michigan reveals that gender minorities, women, and disabled individuals, particularly those who are neurodivergent or living with mental health conditions, are significantly more skeptical of AI compared to their majority-group counterparts.
The research, based on a nationally representative survey of 742 individuals, highlights a stark contrast in attitudes towards AI across different identities. While AI is marketed as a tool for progress and equality, for many, it represents a potential threat rather than a promise.
Understanding the Divide in AI Perception
According to the study’s lead author, Oliver Haimson, an assistant professor at the University of Michigan’s School of Information and Digital Studies Institute, the findings underscore a critical gap in how AI is perceived by various groups. “AI may be everywhere, but it’s not for everyone—at least not yet,” Haimson remarked. “If we continue to ignore the perspectives of marginalized people, we risk building an AI-powered future that deepens inequities rather than reducing them.”
The research indicates that nonbinary and transgender participants reported the most negative views of AI. Women were also significantly less likely than men to view AI positively. Similarly, disabled individuals, particularly those with neurodivergence or mental health conditions, expressed negative attitudes towards AI.
“These are not abstract concerns,” Haimson said. “People who are wary of AI often have lived experiences with systems that misidentify, exclude, or harm them due to their gender or disability.”
Real-World Implications of AI Skepticism
The study identifies several real-world issues that may contribute to these negative perceptions. For instance, facial recognition software has been known to misgender or misclassify trans and nonbinary individuals, often during surveillance. Predictive policing algorithms have been criticized for reinforcing racial biases, leading to unjust arrests. Additionally, healthcare systems that utilize AI models not designed with disabled individuals in mind can result in inadequate care.
Interestingly, the study found that Black participants held more positive views of AI compared to white participants, suggesting a more nuanced relationship with the technology among people of color. This finding highlights the complexity of AI’s impact across different demographic groups.
Challenging the Narrative of AI Neutrality
The research challenges the prevailing narrative of AI as a neutral or universally beneficial tool. It calls on technologists, companies, and policymakers to critically assess who benefits from AI advancements and who might be left behind. By addressing these disparities, the hope is to create a more equitable technological future.
The study’s co-authors include doctoral student Samuel Reiji Mayworm, research fellow Alexis Shore Ingber, and assistant professor Nazanin Andalibi. Their findings were presented at the 2025 ACM Conference on Fairness, Accountability, and Transparency (FAccT ’25).
More information: Oliver L. Haimson et al, AI Attitudes Among Marginalized Populations in the U.S.: Nonbinary, Transgender, and Disabled Individuals Report More Negative AI Attitudes, Proceedings of the 2025 ACM Conference on Fairness, Accountability, and Transparency (2025). DOI: 10.1145/3715275.3732081
Looking Forward: Addressing Disparities in AI
The implications of this study are profound. As AI continues to integrate into various aspects of life and work, understanding and addressing the concerns of marginalized groups becomes increasingly important. The study urges stakeholders to consider the diverse impacts of AI and to strive for inclusivity in technological development.
As the dialogue around AI and its societal impact evolves, it is crucial to ensure that advancements in technology do not exacerbate existing inequalities. By incorporating the voices and experiences of marginalized communities, there is potential to harness AI’s capabilities in a way that truly benefits all members of society.