Employees' Concerns about Generative AI and Resistance to Change

The Impact of AI on the Work Environment and Employee Concerns

In the workplace, concern is growing over the non-cash integration of AI, especially Generative AI. Many employees, including AI engineers who primarily work on non-generative machine learning models, feel that senior management is pushing for the adoption of AI tools without sufficient consideration for their true benefits, financial, human, and environmental costs. These employees fear expressing their concerns for fear of losing their jobs, leaving them feeling isolated in a work environment blindly optimistic about AI.

The adoption of AI in the workplace is a reality, not just a future prediction. In 2019, approximately 80% of large companies had integrated AI into their core business operations, and nearly 50% of employees use AI daily (Oracle, 2019). However, this rapid integration often outpaces organizational readiness, as many rush to adopt AI tools without adequate consideration for the employees who must adapt to these technological innovations (Lin et al., 2025).

Collective Action and Unions to Face AI Challenges

To counter this non-cash integration of AI, collective action is recommended. Instead of individual risk-taking, employees can build a collective resistance movement. Labor unions are already showing successes in this area, such as the Writers Guild of America winning important protections around AI for Hollywood writers, and the Service Employees International Union negotiating with the Governor of Pennsylvania to create a labor council to oversee the implementation of Generative AI in government services. Nurses' unions have also fought for the right to determine how AI is used in patient interactions.

Community Organizations and Grassroots Movements for Fair Technology

If forming a union is difficult in the workplace, there are other organizations to join, such as the "Algorithmic Justice League" or "Fight for the Future," which advocate for fair and accountable technology. There are also grassroots groups like "Stop Generative AI" that aim to organize a resistance movement and provide mutual aid to those affected by the spread of AI.

Local Resistance to Data Center Projects

Local efforts are also showing success in resisting the massive construction of energy-intensive data centers used to power the AI boom. Local activists have already hampered or delayed $64 billion worth of data center projects across the United States.

Social Change and Uniting Efforts for the Future of AI

Experts indicate that social change often occurs in non-linear ways, where small actions can lead to butterfly effects resulting in significant structural outcomes. Although employees may feel isolated, there is a broad base of general concern about AI. Surveys show that 50% of Americans are more concerned than excited about the rise of AI in daily life, and 73% support strong AI regulation. Therefore, individuals are encouraged to seek allies and develop a positive vision for the future of technology and work together to achieve the future they desire.