Are we losing the ability to think due to LLMs?

Editor's note: Innovations in the field of artificial intelligence continue to influence the future of humanity across various sectors. AI has become the main driver of emerging technologies and generative AI has further expanded the possibilities and popularity of AI. Three experts share their views on the issue with China Daily.

In the age of large language models (LLMs) and generative AI, we are witnessing an unprecedented transformation in how knowledge is produced, disseminated and consumed. These tools can summarize dense texts, write code, draft legal contracts, or respond to philosophical questions in seconds.

LLMs, we are told, make us more efficient, simplify complex work, automate mundane tasks and allow us to focus on what matters. But as we marvel at their capabilities, a pressing concern emerges: Are these models genuinely boosting efficiency, or are they subtly eroding our capacity for independent thought, judgment and critical reflection?