A major international survey suggests strong support for robots in physical and hazardous jobs, but continued preference for humans in care roles. Researchers say clear rules will be key to safe adoption.
As robots become a more common sight in workplaces worldwide, a new international study commissioned by Hexagon examines how society perceives their role in daily life. Drawing on responses from 18,000 adults and children across nine countries, the findings reveal a distinct divide in attitudes toward automation depending on the task at hand. The survey shows that while the public generally accepts, and in some cases prefers, robotic assistance for physically demanding or hazardous jobs, there is significant hesitation when it comes to roles requiring empathy and human connection.
A majority of respondents—68%—indicated they would welcome robots handling heavy lifting and the transport of goods, while over 50% favored their use in monitoring potential hazards. This sentiment suggests that automation is widely viewed as a beneficial tool for streamlining repetitive or dangerous workflows.
However, these positive attitudes shift dramatically when the conversation turns to caregiving. Only 12% of adults surveyed expressed support for using robots to care for the sick, the elderly, or children, making it the least popular application of the technology in the study. This reluctance points to a deep-seated belief that human interaction and presence are essential in sensitive service environments. Public discourse mirrors these findings, with many emphasizing the importance of human judgment in critical sectors such as healthcare and essential services.
Critics of widespread automation argue that human presence is indispensable, particularly in fields where nuanced judgment is required. "I think you need face-to-face," one interviewee stated, expressing a common concern that technology cannot replace the necessary human touch in critical care.
Similarly, others expressed caution about the reliance on AI and robots in schools and hospitals, noting the risks of equipment failure and the loss of personal accountability. While many recognize the utility of robots in logistics and controlled industrial settings, the consensus is that for sectors centered on human welfare, replacing human interaction with machines is a step too far.
Ultimately, the survey illustrates that while the drive for technological efficiency is strong, the societal demand for empathy, care, and human accountability remains a non-negotiable standard for many.
