The growing use of artificial intelligence tools that provide instant answers could weaken human thinking and critical skills, the Royal Observatory Greenwich has warned.
Paddy Rodgers, director of Royal Museums Greenwich, said increasing reliance on AI risks undermining habits of questioning and evaluation that are essential for knowledge and innovation.
“A reliance solely on instant answers risks losing the habits of questioning and evaluation that underpin knowledge, expertise and innovation,” he said.
Concern over dependency
Rodgers drew on the Observatory’s history, noting that scientific progress over centuries was driven not only by technology but by human curiosity and sustained inquiry.
He argued that discoveries often emerged through processes that involved exploration, unexpected findings and data collection, approaches that may not be fully replicated by AI systems focused on delivering immediate responses.
Early astronomical research, he said, produced data that later became valuable for purposes not originally anticipated, highlighting the importance of long‑term human engagement with knowledge.
Role of AI in science
At the same time, AI has played a growing role in advancing research.
In 2024, computer scientist Sir Demis Hassabis was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for work using AI to predict protein structures, demonstrating the technology’s scientific potential.
Technology leaders have described AI as a major transformation in cognitive capabilities, with some suggesting it can be used to challenge ideas and support critical thinking.
Balancing benefits and risks
Academics say the impact of AI depends on how it is used.
While tools can support learning and research, experts warn that “cognitive outsourcing” relying on technology to perform mental tasks, can reduce engagement, memory and learning.
Dr Anuschka Schmitt of the London School of Economics said advances in conversational AI have made it easier for users to avoid cognitive effort in work, study and everyday life.
A changing information landscape
Rapid developments in generative AI have transformed how people access information, with tools now providing direct responses rather than lists of sources.
Rodgers warned that this shift could distance users from original, verifiable information, making it harder to assess accuracy and reliability.
Earlier digital tools allowed users to trace information back to primary sources, he said, whereas AI responses may omit such context.
Despite concerns, experts agree AI remains a powerful tool when used responsibly, particularly as a way to test ideas rather than replace independent thinking.
Source: BBC
