## The Cognitive Cost of AI: Are We Becoming Too Reliant?
Artificial intelligence (AI) tools have rapidly moved from early adoption to pervasive use in our digital lives [[1]].Tools like ChatGPT and Gemini offer convenience, assisting with tasks from recipe generation to email drafting, while Co-Pilot helps with social media posts and even analyzing content. though, this ease comes at a cost. A new study by MIT reveals a concerning connection between large language models (LLMs) and a decline in critical thinking skills [[2]].The study involved 54 participants divided into three groups: one using ChatGPT, one using traditional Google Search, and a “brain-only” control group.Participants completed SAT-grade essays while their brain activity was monitored using EEG. Results showed that ChatGPT users exhibited the lowest brain engagement, and this engagement decreased over time, suggesting they became “lazier” and resorted to copy-and-paste [[1]]. This group also consistently underperformed at neuralinguistic and behavioral levels.
The findings suggest that relying on AI to do the work reduces cognitive effort. More alarmingly, there’s a potential link to long-term memory and learning. This raises concerns about the impact of AI on our ability to think critically and independently. The study highlights the need for a mindful approach to AI integration, balancing convenience with the preservation of essential cognitive skills.
