思考的终结：人类脑力降级是比AI崛起更大的危机

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the alarming decline in critical thinking and cognitive abilities among the population, particularly in the context of the rise of artificial intelligence, which is predicted to significantly impact the job market within the next 18 months [1][2][18]. Group 1: Impact of AI on Employment - Predictions suggest that by the summer of 2027, AI capabilities will explode, potentially eliminating up to half of entry-level white-collar jobs [1]. - The article emphasizes that the real crisis lies not in AI taking jobs, but in the decline of human cognitive abilities as individuals outsource their thinking to machines [2][18]. Group 2: Decline in Writing and Reading Skills - A significant concern is the decline in writing skills, as many students are using AI to complete assignments, leading to a generation of graduates who may lack essential writing abilities [3][4]. - The average reading scores in the U.S. have reached a 32-year low, indicating a broader decline in literacy and comprehension skills [7]. - The fragmentation of reading habits, with a decrease in leisure reading by nearly 50% since the early 2000s, reflects a troubling trend in cognitive engagement [8][11]. Group 3: Consequences of Cognitive Decline - The decline in writing and reading is seen as detrimental to deep thinking, which is essential for modern economic practices [12]. - The article warns that the over-reliance on AI tools may erode independent thinking skills, particularly in fields like medicine, where students may rely on AI for diagnosis rather than developing their own analytical skills [13][14]. - The potential societal implications include a loss of critical thinking skills, which could lead to a populace that is more susceptible to manipulation and less capable of informed decision-making [15][18].