The unethical use of artificial intelligence (AI), including potential for discrimination and privacy breaches, is the leading concern among workers for the future, according to the latest research.
The Ethics at Work: 2024 International Survey of Employees, conducted by the Institute of Business Ethics (IBE) in collaboration with the Compliance Institute in Ireland, revealed significant apprehensions about AI misuse. Among those surveyed, one in four expressed being "extremely concerned" about AI's potential for harmful behavior.
Other major concerns highlighted in the study include AI replacing human jobs and increased workplace surveillance and monitoring.
In Ireland, nearly half of respondents said they believe ethical behavior in their organizations has improved since the Covid-19 pandemic, matching 2021 levels and exceeding the global average of 45%. However, the research found that women are more likely to report a decline in ethical standards within their workplaces post-pandemic, with one in ten expressing this view.
Additionally, over one-third of respondents voiced concerns about reduced interpersonal interactions due to the rise of hybrid working models.
The Ethics at Work: 2024 International Survey of Employees gathered insights from 12,000 workers across 16 countries, including 750 respondents in Ireland. The research was carried out by Yonder Consulting on behalf of the Institute of Business Ethics.
Source: RTE