Economics Research Seminar – Dr Tom Lane, Dr Harry Pickard & Dr Matt Walker

Title: No Silver Lining: Consumer Indifference Between Human and AI Production

Date: 26 March 2025

Time: 13:30-14:30

Venue: NUBS.4.25

If you would like to attend, please register using the following link:

No Silver Lining: Consumer Indifference Between Human and AI Production

Speaker:   Dr Tom Lane, Dr Harry Pickard & Dr Matt Walker

Abstract:

Artificial intelligence can now produce outputs that were once the preserve of human labour. Yet well-documented algorithm aversion raises the possibility of consumer bias in favour of human-produced work. This paper uses incentivised experimental auctions and state-of-the-art generative AI software to compare consumer valuations for human- versus AI-created artworks. We find no intrinsic favouritism towards human-created work in consumer valuations, suggesting that prospects for workers in AI-substitutable roles are bleak. However, demand for AI-created products varies with individuals’ attitudes toward AI, indicating that economies with more prevalent anti-AI sentiment may better sustain human labour.