The Dunning-Kruger Effect is Worsening in the AI Era

Illusions of Competence When Using AI

In the era of rapidly advancing AI, more people are falling into the **Dunning-Kruger Effect** – a cognitive bias where those with limited knowledge tend to overestimate their abilities. As AI increasingly solves problems for users, some may mistake the **AI's capabilities** for their own, leading to an illusion that they are just as competent as the technology assisting them.

Why Is This Effect Becoming More Common?

1. Easy Access to Knowledge

AI can quickly provide precise answers, making users feel as if they could have come up with the solution themselves. When things are made easy, it’s easy to overestimate one’s understanding.

2. Lack of Hands-On Verification

Without practical experience or independent verification, users may believe they deeply understand a subject, when in reality, they’ve only scratched the surface. For instance, someone may think they know programming simply because they can ask AI to generate code, but without AI, they struggle to start from scratch.

3. Overreliance on AI

Constantly depending on AI can make users forget their own limitations and believe they can solve complex problems independently. This false confidence can lead to overestimating their actual skill level.

How to Overcome This Illusion?

• Always verify information: Don't blindly trust AI; cross-check sources.
• Practice hands-on: Instead of relying solely on AI, try doing tasks independently.
• Recognize personal limits: Ask yourself, "Can I do this without AI?" If not, there's more to learn.
• Learn the fundamentals: Instead of just copying AI-generated solutions, study the core concepts.

AI is a powerful tool that enhances human capabilities, but if misused, it can create a dangerous illusion of expertise. The key is to maintain a **genuine learning mindset** and not let AI mask our knowledge gaps.