AI and human cognitive processes: Prof. Riva on Communications of the ACM (CACM)

"Accepting AI's Suggestions Is Harder When You Think"

Professor Giuseppe Riva, director of the Humane Technology Lab, was the subject of an in-depth article published in Communications of the ACM (CACM) by science journalist Chris Edwards. The piece, entitled "Accepting AI's Suggestions Is Harder When You Think", explores the role of artificial intelligence in human decision-making processes, starting from the innovative concept of System 0, developed by Prof. Riva and his team.

The article reflects on a crucial question: if artificial intelligence really wants to become an extension of the human mind, what does it take for this to happen effectively and safely?

Riva proposes that System 0 — unlike the "System Zero" described in the past by Neil Lawrence as a manipulative entity — can represent a cognitive interface capable of dialoguing with the rational thought (System 2) of the human being, stimulating a more conscious and critical use of intelligent technologies.

But there is one obstacle: our natural tendency to avoid mental effort. Research shows how people, even when faced with explanations provided by AI, often rely on intuitive responses (System 1), passively accepting the machine's directions.

To overcome this limitation, Prof. Riva suggests the need for new intelligent interfaces, capable of transparently communicating the uncertainty and security of AI responses, adapting to the different levels of knowledge and cognitive needs of users.

"The true potential of AI emerges when it can activate the user's critical thinking, not 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