Two generations, two worlds: how young and old experience AI very differently

We now measure how people in the Netherlands feel about AI four times a year. Every time, the age gap stands out most.

Among 18 to 25 year olds, 90% use AI in their personal lives, compared with 30% of over-65s. But the gap goes beyond usage alone. It is a difference in attitude: 54% of young people are positive about AI, compared with 19% of over-65s. And while 37% of young people would consider AI as a social contact, someone to talk to, only 8% of older people would.

At the same time, we see exactly the opposite when it comes to concerns. 74% of over-65s are worried about AI-driven cybercrime, compared with 42% of young people. And 85% of older people are worried about deepfakes, versus 59% of the youngest group.

It's not that one group is right and the other wrong. Young people see the opportunities, older people see the risks, and both are real. But it does mean that a one-size-fits-all approach to AI policy and communication won't work.