Artificial intelligence may not just be a workplace disruptor—it could also be eroding human cognitive abilities. A recent study from Microsoft and Carnegie Mellon University suggests that reliance on AI tools like ChatGPT could lead to a decline in critical thinking skills, raising concerns about long-term dependency on automation.

The research, which surveyed 319 knowledge workers—individuals whose jobs involve handling data and information—found a direct correlation between confidence in AI and reduced engagement in critical thinking. In other words, the more workers trusted AI to handle tasks, the less they applied their own reasoning, analysis, and judgment.

The study, which claims to be the first of its kind, categorized critical thinking into six key areas: knowledge (recalling information), comprehension (understanding concepts), application (using information in real-world scenarios), analysis (comparing and contrasting ideas), synthesis (combining ideas), and evaluation (assessing ideas). Researchers analyzed 936 instances of AI use in the workplace and found that workers mainly employed critical thinking when refining prompts, setting clear instructions for AI, and verifying AI-generated responses. However, in routine or low-stakes tasks, many relied entirely on AI, bypassing independent thought altogether.

“Used improperly, technologies can and do result in the deterioration of cognitive faculties that ought to be preserved,” the researchers wrote. They warned that AI’s ability to handle routine tasks could lead to a paradox: By mechanizing work and reducing the need for human intervention, it may ultimately weaken people’s ability to think critically when unexpected challenges arise.

As AI becomes more embedded in daily workflows, Microsoft’s researchers caution that long-term reliance could reduce workers’ ability to engage deeply with tasks. The risk is especially high in repetitive processes where users delegate thinking to AI without questioning outputs.

Microsoft, which has invested nearly $14 billion in OpenAI—the creator of ChatGPT—is deeply invested in AI’s future. The company has also announced plans to spend $80 billion on AI infrastructure by June, underscoring its commitment to expanding AI capabilities. Yet, even as a key AI backer, Microsoft’s study highlights a growing concern: AI could reshape the way humans process information, potentially weakening cognitive “muscle memory” for routine decision-making.

Despite the risks, AI can still be a powerful tool for enhancing productivity—if used correctly. The study suggests that maintaining a balance between automation and independent thinking is crucial. Instead of blindly trusting AI, workers should actively verify AI-generated content, refine prompts, and cross-check outputs with external sources.

The findings add to the ongoing debate about AI’s impact on the workforce. While much of the focus has been on AI replacing jobs, this study shifts attention to a more subtle but equally pressing concern: the potential erosion of human intellect.

As businesses integrate AI into their operations, the challenge will be to harness its benefits without compromising workers’ ability to think critically and solve problems independently. Otherwise, the workforce of the future may find itself increasingly dependent on machines—not just for automation, but for thinking itself.