AI is ruining brains.

In today's digital age, AI tools have become incredibly useful for quickly accessing and summarizing vast amounts of information. However, my personal experience has shown that depending too heavily on AI to do the reading for you can negatively affect deep cognitive processes. When we read ourselves, we engage critical thinking, improve memory retention, and develop analytical skills. Conversely, when AI summarizes or reads texts automatically, we risk reducing those mental workouts that keep our brains sharp. For example, I used to rely on AI-driven summaries for academic articles and news, thinking it would save time. Over time, I noticed my ability to concentrate for longer periods and recall detailed information diminished. Reading original content forces the brain to interpret nuance, build connections, and question assumptions—activities that AI shortcuts can limit. Thus, reading for yourself is more than just decoding words; it is a vital exercise in maintaining brain health. To balance AI use, I recommend setting dedicated reading times, choosing diverse materials, and actively engaging with the text by taking notes or discussing ideas with others. This approach not only preserves cognitive strength but also enriches understanding beyond what AI can provide.