Cultural and Regional Influences on Global AI Apprehension

Abstract

The influence of diverse cultural, regional, and socio-political factors on the prevailing artificial intelligence (AI) discourse is underwhelming because current literature predominantly emphasizes Western perspectives. This article conducts a qualitative literature review and comparative analysis to scrutinize the varied attitudes toward AI across regions such as Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. Our primary findings demonstrate that regional differences in AI governance stem from unique socio-economic conditions, political frameworks, and cultural values. These disparities lead to specific AI concerns, including privacy issues, surveillance, job displacement, and ethical biases. The study highlights critical shortcomings in the ongoing discourse surrounding AI, which often fails to incorporate the viewpoints of non-Western societies. The article advocates for a significant shift in AI governance towards a more culturally informed and globally inclusive framework, underscoring the urgent need for adaptable, region-specific strategies that align with local contexts. This approach is essential for fostering fair and ethical advancements in AI worldwide.