AI and Human Cognitive Processes: Prof. Riva in Communications of the ACM (CACM)

“Accepting AI’s Suggestions Is Harder When You Think”

Professor Giuseppe Riva, Director of the Humane Technology Lab, is featured in an in-depth article published in Communications of the ACM (CACM) by science journalist Chris Edwards. The piece, titled “Accepting AI’s Suggestions Is Harder When You Think,” investigates the role of artificial intelligence in human decision-making, starting from the innovative concept of System 0, developed by Prof. Riva and his research team.

The article raises a crucial question: if AI is to truly become an extension of the human mind, what is required to ensure this happens in a safe and effective way?

Riva proposes that System 0—unlike “System Zero,” previously described by Neil Lawrence as a manipulative and subconscious influence—could serve as a cognitive interface capable of engaging with human rational thinking (System 2), promoting a more critical and reflective use of intelligent technologies.

However, there is a challenge: our natural tendency to avoid mental effort. Research shows that even when AI systems provide explanations, people often rely on intuitive thinking (System 1), passively accepting machine-generated suggestions.

To overcome this limitation, Prof. Riva emphasizes the need for new intelligent interfaces that can transparently communicate uncertainty and confidence levels in AI responses, adapting to users’ varying degrees of knowledge and cognitive needs.

“The true potential of AI lies in its ability to activate critical thinking in users, not to replace it.” – G. Riva

📖 Read the full article on Communications of the ACM (CACM):
Accepting AI’s Suggestions Is Harder When You Think

📚 Learn more about the concept of System 0 in the article published in Nature Human Behaviour:
System 0 and Cognitive Extension