# IBM study finds 60% of employees fear AI eroding critical thinking skills

Digest AI · Society & Work · published 2026-10-01T17:11:00Z

Canonical: https://digestai.news/story/ibm-study-finds-60-of-employees-fear-ai-eroding-critical-thinking-skil

## Summary

A global study commissioned by IBM surveyed 1,500 chief human resource officers and 8,800 employees across multiple sectors. The research shows 60% of workers worry their core abilities, especially critical thinking, are diminishing as AI takes on more tasks. Only 29% of employees agree that judgment will remain a key skill, while 71% of CHROs say supervising and validating AI outputs will be essential.

The report highlights a gap in AI strategy involvement: 46% of organizations did not include their CHROs when defining AI plans, and 72% reported limited or no AI use within HR functions. IBM’s senior vice president and chief human‑resources officer Nickle LaMoreaux stresses a “human‑led” approach, noting that clear oversight can boost employee confidence. Small‑business owners are urged to integrate AI thoughtfully, invest in up‑skilling, and keep HR in the conversation to avoid hidden workloads and skill erosion.

The study also links AI adoption to a reported 20% quality improvement and an 18% risk reduction, but warns that without proper oversight, AI can create “invisible work” and a culture of fear that stifles innovation.

## Key points

- 60% of employees say AI is eroding their critical‑thinking skills, according to IBM’s survey of 8,800 workers
- 71% of CHROs view supervising AI outputs as the top future skill, while only 29% of employees prioritize judgment
- 46% of firms did not involve CHROs in AI strategy, and 72% report limited AI use in HR functions

## Why it matters

The findings reveal a widening skills gap as AI spreads, urging businesses—especially small firms—to align AI adoption with human oversight, training, and HR involvement to sustain productivity and employee confidence.

## Sources

1. [AI Growth Sparks Employee Concerns Over Skills Erosion, Study Finds](https://smallbiztrends.com/ai-growth-sparks-employee-concerns-over-skills-erosion-study-finds) (Small Business Trends, 2026-10-01)

## Cite

Digest AI, "IBM study finds 60% of employees fear AI eroding critical thinking skills", 1 October 2026, https://digestai.news/story/ibm-study-finds-60-of-employees-fear-ai-eroding-critical-thinking-skil

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