David Rock Warns AI Adoption Erodes Human Cognitive Skills

Neuroscientist David Rock warned at the UN Skills Fest 2026 that the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence is causing a gradual erosion of human judgment and cognitive skills. He argued that while some workers use AI for routine tasks, most are outsourcing critical analysis and decision-making, a shift he describes as a transition from AI FOMO to an AI hangover.

Rock highlighted a crisis of attention driven by information overload and expressed concern that AI replaces genuine human relationships with chatbot companionship. He suggested this trend hacks attachment and may increase loneliness. He noted that the brain naturally seeks to conserve energy, making it tempting to avoid thinking entirely.

To counter these effects, Rock advocated for metacognition and a human in the lead approach, where AI expands perspectives rather than substituting for human judgment. He predicted that as machines become more capable, authenticity and genuine human connection will become higher-value assets.