Against frictionless AI

Communications Psychology 2026 Open access

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Authors: Emily Zohar, Paul Bloom, Michael Inzlicht
DOI: 10.1038/s44271-026-00402-1
Cited by: 8
References: 6

Abstract

AI’s greatest strength—removing friction from work and relationships—is also a liability. Prioritizing outcome over process, it eliminates desirable difficulties that drive growth. By subtracting effort from life, AI risks removing the struggles that teach us, the loneliness that connects us, and the labor that makes life meaningful. AI’s greatest strength—removing friction from work and relationships—is also a liability. Prioritizing outcome over process, it eliminates desirable difficulties that drive growth. By subtracting effort from life, AI risks removing the struggles that teach us, the loneliness that connects us, and the labor that makes life meaningful.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Ethics and Social Impacts of AI Innovation Sustainability Human-Machine Systems Neuroethics Human Enhancement Biomedical Innovations

Publication details

Journal / source
Communications Psychology
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
4
Issue
1
Publication date
24 February 2026
Language
EN