Brain Activity

An MIT study investigated the cognitive effects of LLM use compared to search engines and independent thought. EEG data revealed reduced brain activity and lower ownership of work among LLM users, suggesting decreased cognitive engagement. Participants who initially used LLMs exhibited weaker neural connectivity and cognitive processing even after switching to independent work, while those who used LLMs after independent work showed cognitive benefits. This highlights the potential for LLMs to hinder cognitive development if used as a substitute for critical thinking, urging cautious AI integration.