Are **AI tools** changing the way we think? This episode delves into groundbreaking research exploring the surprising impact of our increasing reliance on artificial intelligence on our **critical thinking skills**. We uncover the phenomenon of **cognitive offloading**, where we delegate mental tasks to AI, and examine whether this convenience comes at a significant cognitive cost. Discover the correlation between frequent AI usage and potentially diminished analytical abilities, and hear insights into how age and education level might influence this relationship. Is the future of independent thought under threat in an **AI-powered world**? Tune in to find out.