We have rapidly adopted artificial intelligence systems like ChatGPT and similar advanced language models—often referred to as generative AI—due to their promise of increased efficiency across many areas of our lives.
While these tools simplify tasks in numerous fields, scientists have finally begun studying their ultimate impact on the human brain’s deep thinking abilities and critical reasoning processes. A recent four-month experimental study conducted at the MIT Media Lab revealed striking findings: while AI-generated content reduces cognitive load, it may also leave lasting effects on learning, originality, and memory.
The research involved 54 participants aged 18–39, divided into three groups. The first group was asked to write essays using ChatGPT, the second used Google Search, and the third relied solely on their own cognitive resources without digital assistance. To comparatively measure the neural effects of generative AI support, participants’ brain activity was recorded via electroencephalography (EEG) across 32 regions while performing assigned tasks.
Results showed that ChatGPT users exhibited lower brain activity—both linguistically and behaviorally—compared to other groups. As the task progressed, participants in the ChatGPT group became passive in text production, resorting to copying and pasting AI-generated text instead of creating original compositions. This passivity led to a 32% decline in cognitive engagement, despite a 60% increase in efficiency and reduced task duration. Researchers attribute this to a decrease in ‘germane cognitive load’ defined as the mental effort required to process information meaningfully.
The most concerning results involved impacts on memory formation and recall. Reduced mental processing of AI-assisted texts weakened learning and knowledge retention mechanisms. Crucially, AI tools significantly disrupted the integration of information into long-term memory networks.
Researchers term this cumulative cognitive loss ‘cognitive debt’ warning that reduced mental effort and over-reliance on AI may have long-term negative consequences. The study also found that cognitive debt persisted even after participants stopped using AI support, raising concerns that intensive ChatGPT use could permanently alter the brain’s information-processing habits.
I will address other troubling developments related to AI usage in forthcoming posts.