A recent social media post by user Nicole highlighted a perceived "odd vibe" suggesting that Baby Boomers and Generation X are more enthusiastic proponents of large language models (LLMs) than Millennials and Generation Z. This observation, shared on a platform, was reportedly made in response to a Millennial professional banning her ghostwriters from utilizing artificial intelligence tools. While anecdotal, this tweet points to a nuanced and often contradictory landscape of AI adoption and perception across different age groups.
Contrary to the "evangelist" observation, multiple recent surveys indicate that younger generations generally exhibit higher rates of AI usage. An American Express survey, for instance, found nearly 60% of Gen Z and Millennials use AI, compared to 34% of Gen X and Baby Boomers. Similarly, Alight International's 2024 study reported that three-quarters of Gen Z workers actively use generative AI in the workplace.
Despite leading in adoption, younger demographics also express significant reservations about AI. Barna Research revealed that approximately one in three Gen Z (29%) and Millennials (32%) are "skeptical" of AI, a higher percentage than those who are "excited." Baby Boomers, however, show the highest level of distrust, with 45% stating they "don't trust it," and only 18% believing AI to be objective and accurate.
The application of AI also varies generationally. SurveyMonkey data indicates Gen Z predominantly uses AI for educational purposes, while Millennials leverage it for hobbies and entertainment. Gen X and Baby Boomers, conversely, tend to adopt AI more for workplace efficiency. The specific concern raised by the Millennial ghostwriter banning AI use underscores an ongoing debate about AI's role in creative industries and professional integrity.
Understanding these diverse attitudes is crucial for businesses and educational institutions. Experts emphasize the need for tailored AI training and literacy programs to address varying levels of comfort and concern. As younger generations increasingly comprise the workforce, their nuanced perspectives, combining high usage with critical skepticism, will continue to shape the integration and ethical development of AI technologies.