TU Darmstadt discovered that those who have the greatest knowledge of AI are often the most fearful of it.

      A representative survey conducted by TU Darmstadt involving over 2,000 individuals in Germany revealed that approximately 43% of participants with strong knowledge of AI anticipate that it could soon replace their jobs, a figure that exceeds that of less knowledgeable individuals. Just 15% of those surveyed have received any training in AI, despite the literacy obligation of the AI Act being in effect for eighteen months.

      The survey indicates that a greater understanding of AI correlates with a heightened expectation of job loss; 43% of those with extensive AI knowledge believe this to be the case. The research, which was carried out in collaboration with YouGov, is representative and the findings are compared to last year's data.

      Peter Buxmann, the study's lead, noted, “Those who understand AI best are also the most aware of its disruptive potential,” describing the trend as both striking and concerning.

      The impact of AI is less dependent on industry and more on the nature of the work. Those who create text, analysis, reports, code, or presentations are at greater risk, according to Digital Trends.

      The anxieties surrounding AI are rather mundane, which is a notable second finding. Concerns about hallucinations and data protection are significant, overshadowing worries about machine superintelligence. Only 40% believe that superintelligence is a likely outcome. TNW has suggested that the effects of AI on jobs in Europe may differ from the commonly reported narrative.

      Interestingly, younger workers exhibit greater anxiety than their older counterparts, which defies typical expectations. Across all occupational groups, worries about job security have increased since last year.

      Perhaps the most troubling statistic for employers is that only 15% of respondents have had any AI training at all. For the past eighteen months, there has been a requirement in place. Article 4 of the AI Act has been in effect since February 2, 2025.

      This regulation mandates that providers and users of AI systems take steps to promote AI literacy among staff operating these systems, based on their training and the context of use. However, it does not specify a particular level of training and applies only to organizations actively utilizing such systems, meaning the 15% figure does not reflect a compliance rate. TNW has questioned whether the Act can truly safeguard jobs.

      Ultimately, this statistic represents a readiness assessment. After eighteen months of a mandated literacy requirement, most workers in Germany have not received any training.

      Buxmann emphasizes the need for training and transparent communication instead of mere reassurances, as losing a job carries consequences that extend beyond just income.