Researcher warns AI could make this the first generation with a falling intelligence level

Ilmārs Poikāns, a researcher at the Artificial Intelligence Laboratory of the Institute of Mathematics and Computer Science at the University of Latvia, has warned that widespread use of artificial intelligence (AI) could have serious consequences for society. He spoke on the programme “Nedēļa. Post scriptum” on the Latvian TV channel TV24. In his view, uncritical use of AI may cause the average intelligence level of the current generation to decline.

A multiplier of abilities

Poikāns describes AI as a multiplier of abilities: a person who knows how to use it can accomplish more in the same amount of time. He believes that in terms of general knowledge, AI is already smarter than humans.

The risk of laziness

Asked whether the human mind might lose control over AI, the researcher said the problem lies in human nature. In his view, people are lazy, the brain consumes a great deal of energy, and most people will not think if they have the option not to.

Because AI can be asked almost anything, using the information uncritically may make a person dependent on it and hinder their own development. Poikāns calls this very dangerous and believes this will most likely be the first generation whose overall or average intelligence level goes down. He notes that AI, like any tool, can be used both positively and negatively: it offers broad opportunities, but over the long term it may “dumb down” society.

Impact on professions

The researcher admits he would rather not end up in such a future. He believes professions will change: programmers are already seeing significant changes, and lawyers will as well. According to him, top-level specialists are best protected, while beginners and juniors face great difficulty because AI is smarter than the average person at a general level.