In recent years, the concept of cognification has gained legitimacy and widespread attention in Europe, indicating a techno-friendly narrative that suggests everything once disconnected becomes interconnected and 'smart'. This narrative applies to various sectors including organizations, services, transactions, healthcare, agriculture, and transportation, emphasizing how advancements in computational technology, particularly with new artificial intelligence models, are driving this change. The article illustrates how these models are capable of programming, generating content, conversing, and creating, thus enhancing their applicability in everyday life.

However, recent scientific research and studies reveal a paradoxical aspect of this cognification process. While the influx of information and knowledge into these AI models is anticipated to foster cognitive expansion within the organizations or services that utilize them, it often does not lead to significant cognitive development. Instead, it can result in cognitive narrowing, where over-reliance on automated systems may stifle critical thinking and genuine knowledge acquisition. This indicates a need for caution in the enthusiasm surrounding AI technologies.

The implications of these findings are significant for policymakers and educators as Europe navigates its technological landscape. There is a growing necessity to address the challenges posed by the increasing reliance on AI. Ensuring that the integration of artificial intelligence truly enhances knowledge rather than limits it is essential for sustainable development in various sectors. The article calls for a balanced approach that recognizes both the potential benefits and drawbacks of AI in the context of cognification.