Scientists warn: AI dependence reduces cognitive abilities

A new study conducted by scientists from Microsoft and Carnegie Mellon University has identified a concerning trend: active use of artificial intelligence tools may lead to degradation of critical thinking skills among users.

The study involved 319 knowledge workers whose activities are related to data and information processing. Participants provided detailed reports on their use of generative AI tools in the workplace, including the nature of tasks performed, ways of applying AI, level of trust in AI work results, and self-assessment of their own abilities to perform the same tasks without technological support.

The study revealed a clear pattern: the higher a worker’s confidence in AI’s ability to complete a task, the more frequently a decrease in critical analysis of results was observed. This trend was particularly pronounced when performing low-responsibility tasks, where users demonstrated minimal critical evaluation of AI work results.

Notably, with low trust in AI capabilities, users more actively engaged critical thinking skills, which led to a higher ability to evaluate and improve artificial intelligence work results.

The study also found that using generative AI tools leads to decreased diversity in results when performing identical tasks compared to work without AI. This is explained by limitations related to training data on which AI systems operate. Researchers interpret this homogenization of results as a sign of “critical thinking degradation” among workers.

Scientists warn that long-term dependence on AI tools may lead to a significant decrease in independent problem-solving ability. This trend is particularly concerning in the context of growing integration of AI technologies into work processes and daily life.

The study results raise important questions about the need to develop strategies ensuring balance between utilizing AI advantages and preserving critically important human cognitive skills.