At MIT’s Media Lab, researchers are sounding the alarm on the dangers of relying too heavily on artificial intelligence. Nataliya Kosmyna, a research scientist, warns that our brains need “friction” to learn and think critically, but AI is making us rely on shortcuts instead. Studies have shown that frequent use of generative AI can lead to decreased critical thinking skills and a lack of deep understanding.
Kosmyna’s experiment involved testing students’ brain activity while writing essays with or without digital assistance. The results showed that those who used ChatGPT scored lower in cognitive processing, attention, and creativity tests. This has implications for our education system, where AI is increasingly being used to complete assignments.
Critics argue that the widespread use of AI is contributing to a “stupidogenic” society, where people rely on machines to do their thinking for them. Experts like Matt Miles, a psychology teacher, fear that this will lead to a lack of critical thinking skills and deep knowledge. As AI becomes more advanced, it’s essential to consider the potential risks and ensure we’re not sacrificing our humanity in the process.
The rise of generative AI has also raised concerns about the spread of misinformation and conspiracy theories. With AI-driven content becoming increasingly plausible, it’s crucial that we develop critical thinking skills to navigate this new landscape.
As we move forward, it’s essential to strike a balance between the benefits of technology and our need for human interaction and critical thinking. We must ask ourselves: what is the cost of relying on machines to do our thinking for us? And how can we ensure that we’re not losing our ability to think deeply and critically in the process?
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2025/oct/18/are-we-living-in-a-golden-age-of-stupidity-technology