Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the science and engineering of intelligent machines or computer programs designed to simulate human intelligence. Today, AI is a powerful tool for solving complex problems. However, despite its numerous advantages, there are also drawbacks, particularly when it comes to reducing or replacing human action with intelligent machines. Is AI more beneficial or harmful to society? This study was conducted to address this question by examining the opinions of the Burkinabè population on the risks associated with AI in 2019 and 2021.
The study includes a robust methodological component, comparing a Generalized Linear Mixed Model with a fixed-effects regression to identify the most suitable approach.
Findings show that about one-third (33.34%) of the population in 2019, compared to 43.3% in 2021, viewed AI as more of a threat than an asset. The results also highlight the importance of choosing between fixed and mixed effects depending on the research question and data characteristics. Key factors influencing public fears about AI include age, gender, education level, year of the survey, and perceived insecurity.
Older individuals, men, those with higher education, and those who believe there was more insecurity in 2021 than in 2016 are more likely to have a negative view of AI, perceiving it as more harmful than beneficial. The analysis further reveals that concerns about AI have grown significantly between 2019 and 2021.