Rapid AI Adoption Could Deepen Social Inequality, New Research Warns

Across the Netherlands, generative artificial intelligence is becoming a routine part of daily life. From chatbots on laptops to voice assistants on smartphones, usage is growing quickly. However, beneath this widespread adoption lies a growing divide—between those who can effectively use AI tools and those who struggle to benefit from them.

Who Is Using Generative AI in the Netherlands?

Recent research by Professor Alexander van Deursen from the University of Twente highlights how AI usage varies across different groups.

• 65% of Dutch adults report using generative AI
• The study surveyed 1,508 individuals, reflecting national demographics
• Usage is highest among younger and more educated individuals

Popular Tools:

• Chatbots like ChatGPT and Google Gemini: 58% usage
• Voice assistants (e.g., Siri, Alexa): about one-third of users

Interestingly, even among older adults (56–70) and those with lower education levels, around 50% report some AI use. Despite this, experts caution that usage alone does not guarantee meaningful benefits.

The New Digital Divide: Skills Over Access

In the past, digital inequality was largely about access to devices and the internet. Today, the gap has shifted toward skills and confidence.

Most people now have access to AI tools, but not everyone knows how to use them effectively. Those with higher education, stronger digital literacy, and better economic resources tend to gain far more value from AI.

Meanwhile, vulnerable groups—such as older individuals or those in unstable jobs—often lack the knowledge or confidence to fully engage with these technologies.

Why Asking the Right Questions Matters

One of the most important skills in using AI is the ability to ask clear, detailed questions.

Simple or vague prompts often produce poor results, while well-structured queries lead to more accurate and useful responses.

This concept, referred to as “questioning skills”, includes:

• Refining prompts step by step
• Asking follow-up questions
• Verifying and cross-checking answers

Without these abilities, users may either misuse AI or stop using it altogether.

How AI Is Changing Everyday Life

The study shows that generative AI is already influencing daily activities:

• 43% report improved work efficiency
• 41% better understand laws and regulations
• 39% find medical information easier to grasp
• 25% gain more insight into politics
• 20% discover eligibility for benefits or tax support

These results suggest AI can simplify complex information and improve decision-making—but only for those who know how to use it properly.

Risks and Negative Experiences with AI

Despite its benefits, users are also encountering problems:

These findings highlight the risks of relying on AI without proper understanding, especially in sensitive areas like health or employment.

Why Some People Avoid AI

A significant portion of the population still chooses not to use generative AI. Their reasons include:

• 69% say they don’t need it
• 44% prefer independent thinking
• 35% distrust the accuracy of AI
• 27% worry about privacy and data security

These concerns reflect both skepticism and a lack of perceived value.

Policy Challenges: Inclusion Falling Behind Innovation

While governments focus heavily on regulating AI risks, less attention is given to ensuring equal access to its benefits.

Experts argue for stronger digital inclusion strategies, such as:

• Training programs for older adults
• Community workshops for low-income groups
• Workplace upskilling initiatives

Without these efforts, AI could reinforce existing inequalities rather than reduce them.

Conflicting Data, Same Conclusion

Different studies show varying adoption rates. For example:

• Eurostat reports 44.7% chatbot usage among Dutch residents
• Van Deursen’s study shows 58% usage

Despite these differences, both datasets point to the same trend: AI adoption is rising, but inequality persists.

Understanding Digital Inequality in the AI Era

Digital inequality today can be understood across four levels:

1. Access – Availability of devices and internet
2. Skills – Ability to use AI effectively
3. Usage – Applying AI to real-life tasks
4. Outcomes – Gaining tangible benefits (jobs, health, finances)

Those with strong skills progress across all levels, while others remain limited to basic access or avoid AI entirely.

Real-Life Examples of the Gap

Job Search Scenario

A digitally skilled job seeker uses AI to refine their CV, prepare for interviews, and understand job postings. Another person with limited skills may struggle with applications and miss opportunities.

Public Services Scenario

A confident user can simplify complex legal documents using AI, while others may misunderstand important information or ignore it altogether.

These differences can significantly impact long-term opportunities.

The Role of Governments, Schools, and Employers

Addressing AI inequality requires coordinated action:

• Education systems should include AI literacy alongside basic skills
• Governments should ensure non-digital alternatives remain available
• Employers should provide training rather than penalize workers

Community-based initiatives—such as library workshops and local training programs—can also help bridge the gap.

Conclusion

The rapid rise of generative AI is transforming how people work, learn, and access information. While adoption is growing, the benefits are not evenly distributed.

The real challenge is no longer access, but the ability to use AI effectively. Without targeted efforts to improve digital skills and inclusion, AI risks widening existing social and economic inequalities.

Ensuring that everyone can benefit from these tools will require education, policy support, and a strong focus on digital literacy. Otherwise, the divide between those who can harness AI and those who cannot will continue to grow.

FAQs

What is generative AI?

It refers to AI systems that can create content, such as text, images, or responses, based on user input.

Why is AI increasing inequality?

Because people with better skills and resources can use it more effectively, gaining greater benefits.

What are the main risks of using AI?

Misinformation, over-reliance, privacy concerns, and lack of critical understanding.

Who benefits most from AI?

Typically, individuals with higher education, digital skills, and access to resources.

How can inequality be reduced?

Through education, training programs, and inclusive policies that help all groups develop AI skills.