Emerging Technology

A recent Center survey focused on gig platform work. Here is more information about how we crafted the survey and what we learned from it.

Some 16% of Americans have ever earned money from an online gig platform. While most gig platform workers say they have had a positive experience with these jobs, some report facing on-the-job troubles like being treated rudely or sexually harassed.

Many experts say public online spaces will significantly improve by 2035 if reformers, big technology firms, governments and activists tackle the problems created by misinformation, disinformation and toxic discourse. Others expect continuing troubles as digital tools and forums are used to exploit people’s frailties, stoke their rage and drive them apart.

The vast majority of U.S. adults have heard at least a little about cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ether.

The shares of Americans in each income tier who have home broadband or a smartphone have not significantly changed from 2019 to 2021.

A majority worries that the evolution of artificial intelligence by 2030 will continue to be primarily focused on optimizing profits and social control. Still, a portion celebrate coming AI breakthroughs that will improve life.

A plurality of experts think sweeping societal change will make life worse for most people. Still, a portion believe things will be better in a ‘tele-everything’ world.

As artificial intelligence plays a growing role in the everyday lives of people around the world, views on AI’s impact on society are mixed.

A majority of experts canvassed say significant reforms aimed at correcting problems in democratic institutions and representation will take place. But they are divided about whether this will lead to positive outcomes for the public.

Our latest Methods 101 video explains the basics of machine learning and how it allows our researchers to analyze data on a large scale.