Biju Dharmapalan
In an era increasingly defined by technological innovation, reading and writing-cornerstones of human intellect-are facing a profound transformation. While artificial intelligence (AI) bots like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google Bard redefine the boundaries of information generation, the necessity of cultivating human literacy has never been more crucial.
Reading and writing are unique skills humans adopted in our long evolutionary lineage. The transition from Neanderthals to modern humans (Homo sapiens) involved significant cognitive and cultural advancements, but Neanderthals themselves did not read or write. Reading and writing developed after modern humans became the dominant hominin species.
These are not merely communication tools but exercises that keep our cognitive faculties sharp and resilient. When we read, our brains decode symbols, conjuring vivid images, emotions, and concepts. This intricate process activates the left temporal cortex, which is responsible for language processing, and strengthens neural connectivity. Studies underscore that reading enhances memory, concentration, and analytical thinking. Engaging with diverse genres deepens empathy and broadens perspectives, fostering a nuanced understanding of the world.
Writing, on the other hand, is an intellectual partner to reading. Crafting words-whether in a journal, essay, or story-requires us to organise thoughts, synthesise ideas, and express them clearly. This process activates the prefrontal cortex, the brain’s hub for decision-making and problem-solving. Writing is more than an intellectual task; it is therapeutic. Research shows that expressive writing can alleviate stress, enhance mood, and even bolster the immune system. The tactile act of writing also strengthens memory, embedding information deeply within our minds.
Reading and writing foster neuroplasticity, enabling the brain to adapt and form new connections. They are antidotes to cognitive decline and shields against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Regular engagement with these skills cultivates intellectual independence, creativity, and emotional depth-uniquely human attributes.
Yet, as AI bots revolutionise the way we consume and produce information, there is an alarming decline in human literacy. Tools like Book AI, which transforms any book into a conversational chatbot, exemplify AI’s capacity to digest and reproduce complex information effortlessly. Simultaneously, the trend of skimming rather than deep reading-especially among younger generations-threatens to erode our ability to engage with texts meaningfully.
AI excels at processing vast datasets, identifying patterns, and crafting tailored responses. However, it lacks the intrinsic human qualities of creativity, empathy, and ethical judgment. As AI literacy surges, the stagnation of human literacy risks creating a dangerous imbalance. Over-reliance on AI can diminish critical thinking and communication skills, weakening the very attributes that distinguish humans from machines.
As AI continues to evolve and penetrate deeper into our lives, a critical question emerges: should we fear AI as a competitor or embrace it as a collaborator? While the fear of displacement is understandable, the answer lies in shifting our perspective. AI is not an adversary but a powerful partner that can amplify human capabilities and drive innovation.
Individuals can leverage their unique strengths to complement AI capabilities by prioritising the development of reading and writing skills. In an environment controlled by artificial intelligence, these abilities are necessary to navigate complicated concepts, understandably articulate them, and affirm human importance.
The development of artificial intelligence highlights the significance of human expertise rather than diminishing it. The ability to read and write gives us the intellectual agility necessary to adapt, invent, and empathise with others. By making a commitment to studying throughout our lives and improving our reading skills, we can ensure that technology will not replace our humanity but rather improve it.
(The author is the Dean (Academic Affairs) at Garden City University, and an Adjunct Faculty at National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bangalore)
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