Women are avoiding the very technology that threatens them most, as expert warns of a ‘two-tiered AI economy’ approaching

March 21, 2026 - 08:21

A growing gender gap in attitudes toward artificial intelligence is emerging, with women expressing significantly more skepticism than men. This caution, however, is not being framed as a disadvantage. Instead, experts suggest this critical perspective is vital for building a more equitable and secure technological landscape.

Harvard researcher Mara Bolis highlights that women's hesitation stems from a clear-eyed assessment of risk. As AI systems often perpetuate existing societal biases, women are disproportionately affected by flawed algorithms in areas like hiring, finance, and healthcare. Their reluctance to adopt potentially harmful tools is a rational response to documented threats.

This divergence in engagement risks creating a "two-tiered AI economy," where those who design and control the technology reap disproportionate benefits. However, Bolis argues that women's collective skepticism is a powerful corrective force. By demanding greater accountability, transparency, and fairness in AI development, this critical stance pressures companies and policymakers to prioritize safety and ethics from the outset.

Ultimately, the path to trustworthy AI may depend on integrating these cautious perspectives directly into the design process. The goal is not to eliminate healthy skepticism, but to ensure it shapes the technology before it shapes society, leading to systems that work for everyone.