The Impact of Artificial Intelligence in Chile from Citizens’ Perceptions: Opportunities and Challenges in Education, Democracy, and Health

Abstract

This exploratory study analyzes the perceptions of key stakeholders in Chile regarding artificial intelligence (AI) in education, democracy, and health. Using eleven focus groups with 61 participants, meanings of humanity centered on “affective rationality” were identified, valuing emotionality and innate perceptions against a technological development that replaces “instrumental rationality.” In education, the need to integrate socio-emotional skills into the curriculum is highlighted, addressing challenges such as inequality in access to technology. AI is seen as a tool that can personalize learning, although there is concern about its impact on human interaction. In democracy, there is distrust in institutions and a crisis of representation. AI and neurosciences pose tensions between transparency and opacity, and there is fear that they may exacerbate inequality. However, opportunities are also seen to improve citizen participation and decision-making efficiency. In health, AI is viewed as a promising tool to improve efficiency and reduce human errors, although the importance of maintaining empathy and humanization in patient care is emphasized. Challenges include the high cost of these technologies and the need to protect the privacy of medical data. The study concludes that, although AI and neurosciences offer significant opportunities, it is crucial to address their ethical and social challenges to ensure equitable and humane development. This approach will help harness the benefits of these technologies while mitigating potential risks, ensuring a balanced and inclusive advancement.

Presenters

Javiera Reyes Brito
Assistant Professor, Institute of Sociology, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

2025 Special Focus—Minds and Machines: Artificial Intelligence, Algorithms, Ethics, and Order in Global Society

KEYWORDS

AI, Neurosciences, Education, Democracy, Health, Ethics, Inequality