Automation can make people passive from "summary" of The Glass Cage by Nicholas Carr
Automation has the potential to change not just the way we work, but also the way we think and behave. As machines take on more tasks that were once performed by humans, our own skills and abilities may start to deteriorate. This is not just a theoretical concern; studies have shown that when people rely too heavily on automated systems, they can become complacent and less attentive. One of the dangers of automation is that it can lead to a phenomenon known as automation bias. This occurs when people trust the output of automated systems so much that they stop critically evaluating the information they receive. They assume that the machine is always right, and they no longer feel the need to verify its conclusions. This can be particularly dangerous in situations where the consequences of a mistake are severe. Automation can also lead to a decrease in what psychologists call "mental workload." When machines take over tasks that once required significant cognitive effort, people may find themselves with less to do. This can be a double-edged sword; on the one hand, it can free up time and mental energy for other activities. On the other hand, it can lead to a sense of disengagement and a loss of skills. In some cases, automation can actually degrade our abilities over time. For example, when people rely on GPS systems to navigate, they may become less adept at reading maps and developing spatial awareness. Similarly, when pilots rely too heavily on autopilot systems, they may lose their ability to manually fly an aircraft in emergency situations. The key to avoiding the negative effects of automation is to strike a balance between human and machine capabilities. Instead of viewing automation as a replacement for human skills, we should see it as a tool that can augment and enhance our abilities. By remaining actively engaged in the tasks we perform and by using automation as a support rather than a crutch, we can ensure that we continue to develop and maintain our cognitive skills.
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