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Anthropic has launched a new survey initiative called Anthropic Public Record, aimed at gauging public sentiment regarding artificial intelligence across nearly 52,000 Americans. Conducted between November and December 2025, the survey sheds light on both the aspirations and fears surrounding AI in the U.S.
A significant finding reveals that 48% of respondents view curing diseases, such as cancer and Alzheimer’s, as a critical hope for AI advancements. Other popular hopes include assisting individuals with disabilities (36%) and fostering general technological progress and ease of living (23% each). Conversely, concerns about AI-induced job loss emerged as the foremost fear, expressed by 64% of participants, followed closely by worries about cognitive dependency (56%) and misinformation (52%).
Moreover, the survey indicated strong bipartisan support for governmental regulation of AI, with over 70% of Americans advocating for oversight, particularly in the realms of privacy (56%), child safety (52%), and accountability for harm (49%). When deliberating on actions most likely to benefit humanity, nearly half (47%) emphasized the importance of legal accountability for AI companies, while 44% prioritized safety over rapid growth.
Another striking insight is the lack of faith in AI companies, as only 15% of individuals trust these organizations to guide AI development and application. Interestingly, the survey showed that opinions on AI did not largely split along partisan or demographic lines, indicating widespread agreement on the potential benefits and threats of the technology.
This survey builds on Anthropic’s ongoing efforts to better understand user interactions with AI through various research channels, including a global qualitative study involving 81,000 Claude users. The Anthropic Public Record aims to create a continuous dialogue with the public, allowing for regular updates on shifting attitudes toward AI as its capabilities evolve.
The methodology for this survey involved a representative national online poll, with sample sizes varying across states and using YouGov for data collection. With findings reflecting a broad spectrum of concerns and hopes, Anthropic intends to repeat these surveys periodically, tracking changes and incorporating additional demographic considerations in future iterations.
As Americans express their hopes for what AI can accomplish while voicing substantial concerns over its risks, the findings underline a clear demand for accountability and oversight in AI development. The evolution of public perception and regulatory measures will be crucial as AI’s influence continues to grow.
