Facial Recognition Technology: Comparative Analysis of College Students’ Perspectives in China and the US

Abstract

In an era of rapid technological advancement, Facial Recognition Technology (FRT) stands out as a significant innovation with wide-ranging implications for surveillance, security, and personal privacy. This paper presents a comparative analysis of college students’ perspectives on FRT in China and the United States, two global powers with distinct approaches to privacy, security, and individual freedoms. Through surveys, focus groups, and interviews with college students in both countries, this study explores their familiarity with FRT, willingness to adopt it, and concerns about privacy and security. The findings reveal nuanced differences in attitudes shaped by cultural, regulatory, and societal norms. Chinese students exhibit higher acceptance and optimism towards FRT, reflecting its deep integration into everyday life, while American students demonstrate cautious acceptance, emphasizing privacy and ethical considerations. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers, technologists, and educators aiming to balance the benefits of FRT with the imperative to protect individual rights and freedoms.