In this comprehensive study, insights from 1389 scholars across the US, UK, Germany, and Switzerland shed light on the multifaceted perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI). AI’s burgeoning integration into everyday life promises enhanced efficiency and innovation. The Trustworthy AI principles by the European Commission, emphasising data safeguarding, security, and judicious governance, serve as the linchpin for AI’s widespread acceptance. A correlation emerged between societal interpretations of AI’s impact and elements like trustworthiness, associated risks, and usage/acceptance. Those discerning AI’s threats often view its prospective outcomes pessimistically, while proponents recognise its transformative potential. These inclinations resonate with trust and AI’s perceived singularity. Consequently, factors such as trust, application breadth, and perceived vulnerabilities shape public consensus, depicting AI as humanity’s boon or bane. The study also accentuates the public’s divergent views on AI’s evolution, underlining the malleability of opinions amidst polarising narratives.