08/04/2026
Another interesting article in the July/August APA Monitor on Psychology on the impact of AI on Human Skills and Thinking.
BLUF: If you don't use it, you lose it.
It's called cognitive offloading. It's human nature. If we use AI passively, we can lose our critical thinking ability. We've seen this with use of GPS, where people begin to lose their sense of direction. It can negatively impact our creativity. It can even be detrimental for skill development in some individuals.
My takeaway: go use that big, old, beautiful brain of yours. Tap into AI to support your work where *necessary*, but use it to enhance your process and make sure you are stepping through the critical thinking with the results. Don't let it take over the driver's seat.
And a personal add to the conversation on AI from Holly...
I think we need to ask ourselves, "Is the task/question you are asking of AI - worth the cost in fresh water and energy that it will consume to spit out the response?"
Remember that we are borrowing this world from our grandchildren and their grandchildren. May we strive to leave this world better than we found it.
I'm super curious if you're noticing an increase in the use of AI in your work/studies? Do you notice a growing dependence on it? How are you using it to enhance your life?
