The Impact of Generative AI on Critical Thinking: Self-Reported Reductions in Cognitive Effort and Confidence Effects From a Survey of Knowledge Workers
Summary
The paper surveys 319 knowledge workers on generative AI's impact on critical thinking, showing higher AI confidence reduces critical thinking while self‑confidence boosts it, shifting effort toward
Key quotes
higher confidence in GenAI is associated with less critical thinking, while higher self‑confidence is associated with more critical thinking.
GenAI shifts the nature of critical thinking toward information verification, response integration, and task stewardship.
Claims using this source
This Microsoft Research publication presents results from a CHI 2025 conference paper, focusing on how generative AI tools change knowledge workers’ critical‑thinking practices and confidence levels.