AI Models Show “Cognitive Decline” When Trained on Viral Junk Content
Large language models suffer permanent cognitive damage when trained on viral junk content, according to new research. The study reveals AI develops “thought-skipping” behaviors and psychopathic tendencies that persist even after retraining with quality data.
Artificial intelligence systems are developing what researchers call “digital brain rot” when exposed to the same low-quality viral content that’s been worrying parents and educators about human cognition. According to a new paper from researchers at Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin, and Purdue University, large language models show measurable declines in reasoning ability and contextual understanding when continually trained on what the internet serves up as junk food for the mind.