AI Tools ‘Erode Skills,’ Warns Philosophy Professor
As companies increasingly adopt artificial intelligence (AI) tools, there are growing concerns about their impact on workforce skills. Anastasia Berg, an assistant professor of philosophy at the University of California, Irvine, has raised alarms about potential “deskilling” driven by AI reliance.
Impact of AI on Skills Development
Berg shared insights from both her research and discussions with colleagues, revealing a disturbing trend of skill attrition among employees who depend on AI tools. She emphasized the importance of not just acquiring skills, but also maintaining them. Berg stated, “Skills require constant maintenance.”
Research Supporting Skill Atrophy
While specific studies were not mentioned, past research from reputable sources like Oxford University Press and various academic journals indicates that AI may boost productivity but can compromise critical thinking, creativity, and long-term skill growth. This is particularly concerning for junior employees, who are reported to be most vulnerable to losing essential skills.
- Junior employees are heavily relying on AI.
- They may struggle to learn fundamental coding skills.
- AI can create a knowledge gap that hampers problem-solving abilities.
AI Dependency Beyond the Workplace
The influence of AI extends beyond professional environments. Berg pointed out that adults now frequently rely on chatbots for various aspects of life, including emotional support and decision-making. She noted that “the majority of AI use among adults isn’t work-related.”
Shifts in AI Usage Patterns
Research analyzing over 1.5 million ChatGPT conversations showed that by June 2025, up to 73% of messages from adults would likely be non-work-related. This growing dependency on AI not only diminishes the skills needed for specialized jobs but also weakens independent judgment.
The Looming Crisis of Competence
Berg warns that the continuous push for AI implementation under the guise of efficiency could lead to serious consequences. As employees become increasingly dependent on AI, they may lose the fundamental abilities necessary for reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making. The risk lies in cultivating a workforce that appears productive yet lacks the capabilities to operate independently.
“We have them compromising their most basic levels of ability,” Berg concluded, highlighting the potential of AI to dismantle essential skills rather than enhance them.
