Cultural currents: A statistical exploration of Inglehart-Welzel dimensions and artificial intelligence perceptions in Eurobarometer Surveys

This paper explores public attitudes towards the social impact of artificial intelligence in the European Union. The premises of the study are that the cultural dimensions, as outlined by Inglehart-Welzel, have an intricate relationship with the way people perceive technology. The analysis aims to explore how national-level data from the Eurobarometer aligns with culture and explain the relationship drawing on concepts derived from the sociology of technology. The results show that public attitudes towards AI are multifaceted and influenced by various cultural mechanisms, highlighting the importance of taking a holistic approach to the implementation and regulation of artificial intelligence. Our findings can guide policymakers, tech developers, and educators alike, in promoting, respecting, and shaping deep-rooted cultural beliefs and values among the European nations.