Abstract: (51 Views)
Introduction: In recent years, rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, as a technology-driven and transformative force, have reshaped economic and social activities and had profound implications for economic variables, including well-being. Therefore, this study aims to examine the effects of AI on well-being.
Method: To reflect the state of well-being, the Legatum Prosperity Index was employed. In addition, to better capture the dynamic relationships among variables and to test the significance of the transmission channels through which AI influences well-being, a Dynamic Panel Generalized Method of Moments approach was applied. The data are based on time-series information for twenty leading countries in the field of AI, covering the period 2017–2023.
Findings: AI affects well-being through multiple channels. On the one hand, economic growth driven by AI technologies and improvements in life expectancy have significant positive effects on well-being. On the other hand, in the absence of sufficient human capital and under conditions of high-income inequality, the expansion of AI may intensify labor displacement, increase unemployment, and reduce overall well-being.
Discussion: Artificial intelligence holds substantial potential to enhance human well-being; however, the realization of this potential requires carefully designed policies that steer technological progress toward social justice and improved quality of life. In particular, harnessing the positive capacities of AI calls for complementary policies focused on workforce reskilling, reducing inequality, and promoting health-oriented applications.
Method: To reflect the state of well-being, the Legatum Prosperity Index was employed. In addition, to better capture the dynamic relationships among variables and to test the significance of the transmission channels through which AI influences well-being, a Dynamic Panel Generalized Method of Moments approach was applied. The data are based on time-series information for twenty leading countries in the field of AI, covering the period 2017–2023.
Findings: AI affects well-being through multiple channels. On the one hand, economic growth driven by AI technologies and improvements in life expectancy have significant positive effects on well-being. On the other hand, in the absence of sufficient human capital and under conditions of high-income inequality, the expansion of AI may intensify labor displacement, increase unemployment, and reduce overall well-being.
Discussion: Artificial intelligence holds substantial potential to enhance human well-being; however, the realization of this potential requires carefully designed policies that steer technological progress toward social justice and improved quality of life. In particular, harnessing the positive capacities of AI calls for complementary policies focused on workforce reskilling, reducing inequality, and promoting health-oriented applications.
Article number: 1
Type of Study: orginal |
Received: 2025/08/28 | Accepted: 2026/05/5
Received: 2025/08/28 | Accepted: 2026/05/5
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Social Welfare Quarterly
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