Very Bad Wizards Episode 312: MechaSkeptic
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Jul 15, 2025 Dive into the slippery skepticism of David Hume, exploring how AI affects our brains and creativity according to a recent MIT study. Discover the darker side of technology and its potential to divide us in times of crisis. The hosts weave humor into serious discussions about cognitive debt and societal impacts, while tackling the philosophical absurdity of existence. They contrast Hume's views with Descartes, questioning the reliability of beliefs as they navigate the landscape of skepticism. It's a playful yet profound exploration of understanding and technology.
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LLMs Show Reduced Brain Effort
- Using only large language models (LLMs) to write essays reduces brain activity linked to effortful processing.
- However, EEG evidence is insufficient to conclude that LLM use harms cognitive function or creativity.
Skepticism on "Cognitive Debt"
- The MIT study's claim that AI use causes a "cognitive debt" lacks solid evidence due to a small sample size.
- Popular press often overstates preliminary findings on AI's impact on brain function and learning.
Hume's Two Skepticisms Explored
- Hume distinguishes two skepticism types: antecedent (radical doubt before inquiry) and consequent (doubt after inquiry reveals limits).
- He favors a moderate skepticism that is practical and tolerable for human life, mainly trusting experience except in math.
