The Impact of Excessive AI Use on Human Cognitive Functions
A recent study by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) warns about the negative effects that excessive use of AI (artificial intelligence) can have on human cognitive functions. The results show that frequent use of tools like ChatGPT can diminish memory, cognitive engagement, and creativity.
How the study was conducted
MIT researchers divided participants into three groups:
- a group that used ChatGPT to write an essay,
- one that used a search engine,
- a group that did not use any technological assistance.
EEG scans monitored brain activity during the writing process, and the essays were evaluated by both AI systems and human evaluators.
Results of the AI use study
ChatGPT users had the lowest neural activation, especially in areas related to memory and critical thinking. Compared to the other two groups, they had more difficulty retaining information and remembering what they had written.
Individuals who used only a search engine and the group without any technological aid demonstrated deeper cognitive engagement and better memory.
In the study’s conclusions, MIT researchers noted a degradation in the ability to learn and think critically when AI dependency
becomes a habit.
A phenomenon already present in our lives
In fact, this phenomenon is not surprising. Before the era of computers and smartphones, people memorized bus routes, phone numbers, addresses, and other essential information.
Today, we have everything at a click’s distance, but that means we no longer store information in memory. How many of us still know our partner’s or a family member’s phone number? Or how many have forgotten what they wanted to search for after opening their phone?
Technology, including AI, is a valuable tool and makes our lives easier, but dependence or excessive use can have a hidden cost: the gradual loss of memory, creativity, and critical thinking. The solution? Balanced use; using artificial intelligence as an aid, not as a substitute for thinking.
Article source: arxiv.org.
