Originally found at Phys.org.
Generative artificial intelligence (Gen-AI) has become a routine part of working life but over-reliance on the technology may erode managers’ ability to build moral insights, contextual understanding and know-how to do get a job done, according to a new study from the University of Bath.
The research, published in the Academy of Management Review, explores how tools such as ChatGPT may affect what academics call “managerial phronesis” – the practical wisdom managers develop through real-world experience, reflection and human interaction.
“Gen-AI appeals because it can help people complete tasks more quickly. However, Gen-AI cannot replace the lessons learned through first-hand experience. Unlike humans, AI does not experience the world, understand the consequences of decisions, or grasp the social and emotional complexities in our workplaces. Instead, it produces responses based on patterns found in existing data,” said Professor Dirk Lindebaum of the University’s School of Management.
“This creates a significant risk for organisations – as managers increasingly outsource their thinking to Gen-AI for idea generation, or when a practical problem arises at work, they may rely less on their own judgement. Over time, this could reduce their ability to learn from experience, think critically, and to anticipate what kinds of actions are needed now to meet future goals”, he said.
Learn more about the AOM Scholars and explore their work:
- Patrick Haack, University of Lausanne