The Psychology Behind Cognitive Offloading
Psychologists call this effect cognitive offloading.
When tools handle mental tasks for us, the brain conserves energy —
but long-term thinking ability may decline.
The same happened with calculators, GPS, and smartphones.
AI simply accelerates the process.
The Real Answer: It Depends on How We Use AI
AI itself is neutral.
It can be:
- A tool that enhances intelligence
- Or a crutch that replaces thinking
The outcome depends on whether AI is used to assist thinking —
or to avoid it.
