Humans appear to be getting cognitively weaker in some areas, such as concentration, reasoning, and problem-solving, especially since the mid-2010s. This decline is seen in declines in IQ scores and academic skills like reading, numeracy, and science, with multiple studies from different countries reporting this trend. However, this does not necessarily mean humans are inherently less intelligent, but that environmental factors, lifestyle changes, and technological influences are impacting cognitive abilities. The rise of digital technology, increased screen time, shortened attention spans, and cognitive offloading to AI and smartphones are likely contributors. Yet, there are also arguments that intelligence is evolving in different ways, such as greater access to education and new cognitive skills related to digital literacy. Overall, evidence points to a measurable cognitive decline in some domains, but the picture is complex and nuanced.
Key Factors in Cognitive Decline
- Decreased attention spans linked to overuse of digital devices and social media.
- Reduced reading for pleasure and shifts toward visual, short-form media.
- Environmental factors including changes in education, nutrition, and ubiquitous technology use.
- Cognitive offloading to AI and smartphones reducing memory and problem-solving exercises.
Nuances
- The Flynn Effect of rising IQ in the 20th century has reversed since around 1975 in many countries.
- Some cognitive declines do not imply lower intrinsic intelligence but changes in cognitive demands and habits.
- AI and technology both challenge and transform cognitive functioning, creating new skills even as some traditional skills decline.
In summary, humans are not simply "getting dumber," but measurable declines in certain cognitive functions are occurring due to complex societal, environmental, and technological changes.