ChatGPT Reduces Cognitive Abilities: How to Avoid Brain Atrophy

Artificial intelligence, such as ChatGPT, has long become a part of our everyday lives, and its negative impact on our cognitive abilities is being felt. People are becoming increasingly dependent on it, and it turns out that our ability to think, solve problems, and even write is gradually deteriorating. Experts from various fields, including psychologists, psychiatrists, and scientists, are discussing this phenomenon, reports «Glavcom» citing an article from The Wall Street Journal.

The publication states, «ChatGPT isn't working, and panic takes over. You look at a blank document. The report is due in two hours, but the thought of writing it yourself seems unbearable. Analytical skills that once came naturally, such as problem-solving, organizing thoughts, and finding the right words, now seem incredibly complicated».

The Problem of Cognitive Atrophy

With the rise of technological dependency and the spread of generative artificial intelligence in workplaces and educational institutions, a troubling phenomenon is emerging: a gradual decline in our cognitive abilities.

Using AI for quick answers can lead to cognitive atrophy - the loss of our mental skills. This is similar to muscles losing strength due to inactivity. Studies have shown that students who used ChatGPT to solve math problems initially succeeded, but when tested without AI, their results were 17% worse. This indicates that short-term gains can hide long-term losses.

Implications for Thinking and Memory

Experts warn that excessive dependence on AI can negatively affect our memory and ability to think critically. When we use AI to find answers, our brain does not work on memorization, leading to the so-called «Google effect». Additionally, by assuming generated information without analysis, we lose the ability to think critically and become more susceptible to systemic biases.

Four Steps to Preserve Cognitive Abilities While Using AI

Experts recommend consciously interacting with technology, viewing AI as a tool to enhance skills rather than a replacement. To preserve cognitive abilities, it is advised to use AI as a prompt and set limits on AI usage to maintain cognitive functions.

In this context, Beijing has announced a plan to integrate artificial intelligence into all areas of life with the aim of transforming the country into an «intelligent economy» by 2035, as stated in the document of the State Council of China.