Canadians Are Embracing AI, But Struggle to Understand Its Impact
While two out of three Canadians have experimented with generative AI (GenAI) tools at least once, a deep understanding of how these technologies work — and how they influence society — remains limited. A new study by Toronto Metropolitan University reveals that despite rapid adoption, most users lack comprehensive knowledge. Only 36% of survey respondents reported being familiar with the ethical standards and rules surrounding AI use.
Concerns are particularly high regarding AI’s role in news, politics, and information dissemination. According to the research, 67% of Canadians worry that AI could be used to manipulate public opinion during election processes, while 59% say they no longer trust political news they encounter online. Although generative AI tools could theoretically help voters better understand political issues, more than half of Canadians prefer not to rely on AI for election-related information.
Amid this climate of uncertainty, a strong public demand for regulation is emerging. Seventy-eight percent of Canadians believe AI companies should be held accountable for any harm their tools cause. Researchers recommend three key steps to address these concerns: prioritizing personal data protection, integrating AI literacy into education systems, and ensuring full transparency about how and why AI technologies are being deployed.
Click here for the source
