Unveiling trust in AI: the interplay of antecedents, consequences, and cultural dynamics

Abstract

Trust in artificial intelligence (AI) has become a central issue due to the opacity and unpredictability of AI decision-making processes. However, existing studies often produce inconsistent results and fail to provide a unified understanding of the underlying factors, making a comprehensive review necessary. To address this gap, we conducted a systematic review of 562 empirical studies to explore the antecedents and consequences of human trust in AI. The review identified key antecedents of trust, including AI capability, anthropomorphism, individual factors, and explainability, and associated consequences, such as behavioral intention, attitude, and acceptance. A cross-cultural analysis revealed significant differences in how cultural contexts influence the perception and prioritization of factors, such as capability, transparency, and anthropomorphism. These findings emphasize the need for a multidimensional approach to developing trustworthy AI systems, highlighting the importance of cultural sensitivity in AI design. The review also suggests several promising avenues for future research, including dynamic trust formation, reciprocal trust relationships, and the evolution of trust over time. Addressing these areas will enhance our understanding of trust in AI and contribute to the development of culturally adapted and ethically sound AI technologies.