AI tools are a powerful new force. They summarize articles instantly, rewrite sentences, and generate creative ideas on demand. The initial “wow” factor is undeniable. I have used them and am taking courses to understand their inner workings and how to integrate them into my workflow.
But as the novelty fades, a question remains: What is AI doing to our brains?
Critical thinking is a process, not just a result. It’s the mental workout that sharpens our ability to dissect information, question assumptions, and form independent judgments. If we outsource this workout to AI, our mental muscles may atrophy. We risk becoming so reliant on these digital crutches that we lose the ability to think for ourselves.
This is not a dystopian fantasy. Consider how GPS has already changed us. We once used landmarks and memory; now, we blindly follow a voice. Our spatial awareness has diminished as a result.
The same fate could await critical thinking. If AI always provides the answers and structures our thoughts, are we slowly eroding our capacity for independent thought?
We shouldn’t ditch AI. That’s like trying to un-invent the internet. The benefits are clear. The key is to be mindful of how we integrate these tools into our lives.
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