Experts Warn of Cognitive Decline Linked to Over-Reliance on AI
A recent workshop highlighted growing concerns about the potential for cognitive impairment resulting from excessive dependence on Artificial Intelligence (AI). Experts warn that widespread AI use is leading to a decline in critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and even basic geographic awareness.
Chu Tuan An, Director of Aptech International Programmer Training System, noted the common reliance on tools like Google Maps. He argued this dependence is eroding people’s ability to navigate and judge direction independently, leading to diminished reflexes and difficulty handling unexpected situations. He presented this as a clear example of AI-induced cognitive decline.
dr. Rakhi Das shared an observation from a school where students were utilizing AI to complete homework assignments. Even when presented wiht straightforward questions in class, these students struggled to articulate explanations, demonstrating a weakening of their fundamental thinking skills. This trend, she noted, is also occurring in Vietnam.
Experts identified three levels of what thay termed “AI anencephaly”: lazy thinking (characterized by uncritical copying and pasting and a lack of recall), loss of skills (inability to perform tasks without AI assistance), and cognitive blindness (difficulty discerning truth from falsehood). Early signs of this impairment are already visible,with advertising professionals struggling to write content and programmers finding it difficult to write even short code,and experiencing memory lapses regarding their own work.
The consequences extend beyond individual skillsets. Experts cautioned that an over-reliance on AI within the workforce could lead to job displacement, as individuals unable to think independently may be replaced by AI or those who can effectively utilize it. Furthermore,cognitive impairment linked to AI use carries risks of depression,diminished self-confidence,and ultimately,a loss of identity and purpose.
This trend poses a threat to Vietnam’s economic competitiveness. Chu Tuan An warned that within the next 3 to 5 years, a generation may emerge that “knows how to use AI but does not know what to do with it,” potentially costing Vietnam its competitive edge against nations prioritizing original thought and independant creativity. A lack of critical thinking and creativity within the Vietnamese workforce, experts say, will negatively impact labor productivity, innovation, and overall development.
To mitigate these risks, workshop participants proposed a “3T” approach to responsible AI usage: think First – spend at least 3 minutes attempting to solve a problem independently before seeking AI assistance; tool, not Tutor – view AI as a tool to augment, not replace, human thought; and teach-back – explain concepts or solutions aloud to others. these methods are designed to encourage cognitive reorganization, knowledge reinforcement, and ultimately, restore brain function to optimal levels.
(Photo: MH) – mr. Chu Tuan Anh, Director of Aptech International Programmer Training System, spoke at the workshop.
Source: https://vtcnews.vn/chuyen-gia-canh-bao-nhung-he-luy-tu-hien-tuong-rong-nao-ai-ar990121.html
