Microsoft finds AI makes human cognition 'shrunken and unprepared'

Researchers from Microsoft and Carnegie Mellon University have just published a major study on the impact of generative AI at work on critical thinking skills. The paper suggests that, if not used properly, this technology could lead to a decline in cognitive abilities that humans need to maintain.

Human thinking ability is impaired if we depend too much on AI.

When workers rely on AI to perform tasks, they tend to shift their attention from developing critical thinking skills to verifying the accuracy of AI responses. This can deprive them of opportunities to practice judgment and develop cognitive abilities, leading to unpreparedness for unexpected situations.

The study surveyed 319 people who used generative AI at least once a week at work. Participants were asked to share three examples of how they used AI, including creative (like writing emails), informational (research or summarizing), and advisory (instructions or creating charts). They were also asked about practicing critical thinking skills and the level of effort involved in using AI.

This affects people's work skills.

About 36% of respondents said they used critical thinking skills to mitigate risks from using AI. One said he used ChatGPT to write performance reviews but double-checked the output to avoid sending misleading information. Another had to edit an AI-generated email to fit his company culture.

The study also found that not all participants were aware of the limitations of AI. The paper notes: 'The potential harms of AI feedback may promote critical thinking, but only if users are aware of those risks.' In fact, participants who trusted AI were less likely to make an effort to think critically than those who trusted their own abilities.

Everything that undermines the ability to solve problems independently.

While researchers don't believe that artificial AI makes humans less intelligent, research suggests that over-reliance on the technology could undermine our ability to solve problems independently.

Jessica Tanner

Update 18 February 2025