The Smartest Person You Know Is an Idiot: How AI Removes Cognitive Friction
mikeflache · x · 2026-09-12
In Psychology Today, John Nosta describes a modern cognitive paradox: raw intelligence stays intact while the active habit of thinking erodes.
- AI removes vital cognitive friction by erasing the effortful interval needed to naturally develop an idea
- Human nature seeks the path of least resistance, so people outsource their reasoning to AI
- Result: people are increasingly adept at sounding intelligent online, yet less willing to endure the intellectual discipline genuine understanding demands
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