I am worried about our future — no thanks to AI

Everyone today is talking about how amazing Artificial Intelligence (AI) is. Academic institutions — be they schools, colleges or universities — are rushing to integrate AI into classrooms. Companies are racing to become the first to jump on the bandwagon by showcasing AI-powered tools and apps. Governments are proudly announcing AI strategies, programmes and initiatives. Virtually every conference I attend features keynote addresses that mention AI, with some even promising smarter systems, faster decisions and unprecedented efficiency because of it.

In a nutshell, AI is being sold as the ultimate solution to nearly every problem we face. There is far too much excitement and celebration around it. To be honest, I am genuinely concerned. That is why I decided to write and share my worries about the future — no thanks to AI.

As a technologist who has not only explored but also worked on different solutions, I can confidently explain the benefits that technology can deliver. Digital transformation, on many fronts, is proof in the pudding. If I were to elaborate on that, I would end up writing a book. AI, however, as an innovative technology, is different — not because of what it can do, but because of what we, as humans, may become because of it. This, specifically, is what worries me most.

Most technology-powered solutions promise efficiency, scale and optimisation. AI may do the same — I do not doubt that — but it does so not only by changing how we work, but also how we think, whether fortunately or unfortunately. People will increasingly use it to think and work for them. As a result, AI will not merely assist humans, as many believe, but replace them entirely, judging by current patterns. Why need a human if a smart computer powered by AI can do the job cheaper, faster and even smarter? Think about that.

Studies show that heavy reliance on AI reduces critical thinking. Research by leading academic institutions and technology organisations, including Microsoft and Carnegie Mellon University, indicates that users who trust AI outputs without scrutiny engage less in analytical reasoning. Furthermore, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has warned that unchecked automation erodes foundational cognitive skills. What does this mean? The more we delegate our thinking, the worse we become at it. Period.

We all know that our muscles weaken when unused. Our attention spans shrink when overstimulated and our memory fades when everything is stored externally. Why should our thinking be any different? Do you see where my concern about the future comes from? The advancement of AI itself is the least of my worries. What we, as humans, will become is what truly concerns me.

Let us be honest: when decision-making is automated, curiosity declines. When creativity is generated through AI, originality fades. When judgement is outsourced, accountability disappears. When everything depends on and is powered by AI, disaster is what I fear could be the outcome. Again, as an experienced technologist, I see the benefits when AI is used correctly. Yet today, I often see it being used to avoid thinking, which makes many people lazy and, ultimately, less capable. We are training a generation to be operators of intelligence rather than owners of it.

Am I trying to persuade you not to use AI? No. Do I recognise the value that AI brings to the table? Absolutely. What I am trying to share is my concern based on what I observe — among children in schools and professionals in organisations alike. Many tools come and go, but this one is different. It has the potential to reshape human intelligence itself.

We need to pause, reflect and ask hard questions about dependency, effort and what it truly means to think. That is what I hope to shed light on and to explore further in future articles. Until then, do not be overly reliant or dependent on AI. Give your mind a workout to keep it strong, just as you exercise your muscles to keep your body healthy.