Researchers are pointing out that the proliferation of AI on the internet is having a profound impact on how we write and potentially even how we think.
A recent report by online security platform Imperva revealed that automated traffic exceeded human-generated activity online for the first time in 2024. While experts caution about definitive conclusions, they acknowledge the increasing presence of AI online.
With the rising use of AI-powered chatbots in daily interactions, individuals are starting to adopt the language patterns typical of these chatbots. Concerns have been raised about a potential feedback loop that could limit human creativity and alter cognitive processes.
Sinead Bovell, a Canadian futurist and founder of tech education company WAYE, expressed worries about the standardization of language leading to a possible uniformity in thought influenced by AI.
It is estimated that over half of the text online is now likely generated, either wholly or partially, by AI.
Bovell observed a uniformity in writing styles across various social media platforms such as X and LinkedIn, as well as platforms like Substack.
Experts noted that the increasing homogeneity of language online is making it challenging to distinguish between human and AI-generated content.
AI-written text often exhibits symmetrical clauses, specific language patterns like “moreover,” the use of lists, nonsensical metaphors, and a generally neutral tone.
AI’s Influence on Human Thought and Reasoning
Morteza Dehghani, from the University of Southern California, expressed concerns about the diminishing diversity in language and thought due to AI’s impact.
In a February study, Dehghani and a team from USC analyzed language in Reddit posts, scientific papers, and American community newspapers from 2018 to 2025. They noted a surge in AI-generated text post the release of OpenAI’s ChatGPT chatbot, leading to a decrease in text variance and complexity.
A recent study from MIT looked at the impact of using AI on brain function. Dr. Peter Lin walks us through what those researchers found.
Dehghani indicated that