AI is altering human behavior by exploiting cognitive biases.
Why it matters: These cognitive biases, known as heuristics, are mental shortcuts that allow for quick and intuitive judgments but can result in consistent errors in reasoning.
- AI algorithms, whether intentionally designed to do so or not, often activate these biases to influence user behavior.
Between the lines: The concept of using technology to change human attitudes and behaviors is known as "Persuasive Technology" (PT).
- In the past, this might have involved simple interactive systems, but AI has exponentially amplified its power.
- AI-driven systems can now execute "digital nudges" at a massive, personalized scale, guiding user behavior without overt coercion.
The intrigue: The convergence of hyper-personalization and persuasive technology has given rise to a more powerful and ethically complex concept known as the "hypernudge."
- This term refers to a second generation of dark patterns, where artificial intelligence (AI) goes beyond simple nudging and enters the realm of computational manipulation.
Zoom in: A hypernudge is a dynamic, adaptive system that employs AI to uncover hidden patterns in a user's behavior.
- It constructs a profile of that user's specific cognitive vulnerabilities and then reconfigures the digital environment in real-time to exploit those vulnerabilities and influence their decisions.
Between the lines: A subtle yet profound behavioral change influenced by AI is the growing trend of "cognitive offloading."
- This occurs when individuals delegate cognitive tasks that were traditionally managed internally—such as memorizing information, navigating routes, and even performing analytical reasoning.
- While cognitive offloading can be highly efficient, allowing mental resources to be used for other tasks, relying too heavily on AI for essential cognitive functions comes at the cost of developing critical thinking skills.
Context: The foundation of responsible AI stewardship lies in creating a formal governance structure that turns abstract ethical values into specific, enforceable policies.
- To effectively implement these principles, organizations should establish a dedicated governance body, such as an AI Steering Committee.
- This committee is composed of a diverse group of individuals, including technical experts, legal representatives, ethicists, policy makers, and business leaders.
What's next: Many significant risks associated with AI are not apparent technical failures, but rather "hidden" behavioral and organizational challenges that can quietly undermine the success of an AI initiative and cause unintended harm.
- A long-term strategy for successfully navigating AI is empowering people.
- Organizations must invest in cultivating these human capabilities as a strategic priority.
- This involves a dual approach: promoting widespread AI literacy to demystify the technology and designing human-AI interactions that actively encourage rather than suppress critical thinking.
Go deeper: Want to know more about the intersection of humans and AI? Contact Todd Moses & Company today to receive a complimentary guide.
