• 中国科学学与科技政策研究会
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  • 清华大学科学技术与社会研究中心
ISSN 1003-2053 CN 11-1805/G3

科学学研究 ›› 2025, Vol. 43 ›› Issue (7): 1354-1363.

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渗透与理解:智能技术的公众信任机制研究

廉翔鹏1,魏钰明2,苏竣1   

  1. 1. 清华大学公共管理学院
    2. 清华大学智能社会治理研究院
  • 收稿日期:2024-05-28 修回日期:2024-08-06 出版日期:2025-07-15 发布日期:2025-07-15
  • 通讯作者: 魏钰明
  • 基金资助:
    人工智能综合影响社会实验研究

Penetration and Understanding: A Study on the Public Trust Mechanism of Intelligent Technology

  • Received:2024-05-28 Revised:2024-08-06 Online:2025-07-15 Published:2025-07-15

摘要: 人类社会正在经历智能化转型,智能技术对各领域的渗透使其成为事实上的信任客体。但智能技术发展面临的不确定性让其面临信任危机。本文基于各国智能技术发展程度和公众信任水平不匹配的困惑,从公众理解科学的视角构建了“渗透—理解—信任”的理论框架,以2017年欧洲晴雨表调查中的9931名欧盟公众为样本,实证讨论技术渗透对智能技术公众信任的影响效果和作用机制。研究发现,技术渗透对智能技术公众信任水平具有直接正面效应,公众对智能技术的能力认同和效益认同能够部分中介技术渗透对智能技术公众信任的提升作用。本研究对于如何在社会面构建对智能技术的普遍信任提出了对策建议。

Abstract: Human society is undergoing a significant transformation driven by intelligent technologies that penetrate various fields, making them essential objects of public trust. However, the uncertainty surrounding these technologies has led to a pervasive trust crisis. This study constructs a theoretical framework of "penetration-understanding-trust" from the perspective of public understanding of science to address the mismatch between the level of intelligent technology development and public trust across different countries. Using data from the 2017 Eurobarometer survey, which includes responses from 9,931 EU citizens, this study empirically examines the impact and mechanisms of technological penetration on public trust in intelligent technologies. The findings reveal that technological penetration has a direct positive effect on the level of public trust in intelligent technology. Additionally, public recognition of the capabilities and benefits of intelligent technologies serves as a partial mediator in this relationship. Specifically, the results show that as the penetration of intelligent technology increases, public trust in these technologies also rises. This trust is further enhanced when the public recognizes the capabilities and benefits of these technologies, which are facilitated by their widespread use and integration into everyday life. The study highlights the critical role of experiential learning in fostering public trust in intelligent technologies. As individuals interact more frequently with intelligent technologies, they gain a better understanding and appreciation of their capabilities and benefits, which in turn enhances their trust. This process of experiential learning is particularly important given the rapid pace of technological advancement, which often outstrips the ability of traditional educational methods to keep up. Theoretically, this study extends the literature on public trust in technology by incorporating the roles of technological penetration and experiential learning. Practically, it provides valuable insights for policymakers and businesses aiming to build and maintain public trust in intelligent technologies. Strategies to increase public exposure to intelligent technologies, such as through demonstrations, pilot programs, and broader accessibility, can significantly enhance public understanding and trust. Furthermore, the study suggests that public policy should focus on creating environments where intelligent technologies can be more visible and accessible to the general public. This could include regulatory frameworks that support the early and safe deployment of these technologies, public awareness campaigns, and educational initiatives that emphasize hands-on experience with intelligent technologies. Collaboration between governments, technology developers, and educational institutions is essential to achieve these goals. Governments can facilitate this process by providing funding and support for pilot programs and research initiatives that explore the best ways to integrate intelligent technologies into public life. Technology developers can contribute by designing user-friendly and accessible products that encourage public interaction and learning. Educational institutions can help by incorporating experiential learning opportunities into their curricula, allowing students to engage directly with intelligent technologies. In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of technological penetration and experiential learning in building public trust in intelligent technologies. By increasing public exposure to these technologies and facilitating hands-on learning experiences, it is possible to enhance public understanding and trust, thereby supporting the broader adoption and integration of intelligent technologies into society. This study provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the dynamics of public trust in intelligent technologies and offers practical recommendations for fostering a more trusting and informed public.