Overcoming social and ethical challenges of AI through organizational resilience. A PLS-SEM approach

Abstract

This study aims to verify the impact of organizational resilience (OR) on the social and ethical challenges of artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and utilization. This is a significant topic as AI usage in governments is rapidly growing, followed by opportunities, many unknowns, and challenges for public servants. Although scholars have increased their focus on overcoming challenges caused by digital technology in general, there is still a need to expand their focus to a specific type of technology, such as AI. Therefore, we ask whether organizational resilience can help overcome social and ethical AI challenges. To answer this question, we base our research on the survey realized in Poland among 414 city governments. The data analysis employed PLS-SEM revealed that a proactive approach manifested through the strategic planning dimension of OR is crucial to overcoming social and ethical challenges of AI adoption and utilization. In contrast, a reactive approach based on adaptive capacities is not significant. These findings have important implications for theory and practice, particularly for creating conditions that foster the development of AI adoption and utilization in city governments.