Study: People see AI users as less competent

A new Duke University study reveals that workers using AI tools are often perceived as less competent and hardworking by their colleagues. This bias could hinder AI adoption in professional environments. The study, involving 4,400 participants across four experiments, found negative perceptions of AI users persisted even when the tools improved productivity. Hiring managers also rated candidates using AI less favorably, though this bias lessened with AI experience. Researchers noted that individuals with direct AI experience were more accepting of its use. The findings highlight potential social barriers to AI integration, despite its growing role in the future of work.