Blind faith in enhancement techniques encourages risk-taking, even if the technology is a gimmick, study finds

A new study published in computers in human behavior suggests that a placebo effect is at play when people expect their performance to be enhanced by augmentation technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI). The researchers found that individuals with high expectations of these technologies tend to engage in risky decision making, which can be a problem as people adopt these technologies without properly understanding their benefits and limitations.

Augmentation technologies that boost our physical, cognitive, or sensory performance have become commonplace. Some are so widely in use that they have become invisible – spell checking, for example – and new technologies are emerging that may push our capabilities beyond human limits, such as exoskeletons and AI-based vision-augmentation. But the hype around these technologies also creates expectations, which can motivate people to change their behavior.

“People are more willing to take risks when they believe they are enhanced by cutting-edge technologies such as AI or brain-computer interfaces,” says Robin Welsh, assistant professor at Aalto University. “This occurs even when no actual enhancement techniques are involved, indicating that it is about people’s expectations rather than any noticeable improvement. The findings also suggest that improvements based on simulated systems have a Strong beliefs can transform decision making.”

don’t trust the processor

Together with colleagues from LMU Munich, HU Berlin and Aalto University, Welch measured decision-making and risk-taking behavior with the Columbia Card Task, a well-known psychological experiment. In the experiment, participants win or lose points by turning over cards with hidden values. 27 participants were led to believe that an AI-controlled brain-computer interface, placebo, would enhance their cognitive abilities by using binaural sounds to track loss cards.

But the game was rigged – the raise offered no real advantage, and the participants were almost never faced with loss cards. Still, most participants thought that growth helped them do better, and that it made them take more risks. These findings suggest how simulated cognitive enhancements can have real effects on risk-taking.

“The hype around these technologies leaves people’s expectations high,” says Steven Vila, a doctoral researcher at LMU Munich. “This can lead people to make risky decisions and create favorable user evaluations, which can have real consequences.”

technology is never neutral

Modern AI-based vision enhancement tools are becoming available for firefighters to see through smoke, and factory workers are already taking advantage of the exoskeletons they use to handle the loads that degenerate the human body . The creeping effects of generative AI systems could provide a similar boost to knowledge workers. The authors are concerned that the entire profession may develop an enormous appetite for risk, based on misplaced expectations.

“AI-based technologies that enhance users are commonplace and play a role in real-life decisions that affect people’s lives, well-being, confidence and security,” says Professor Thomas Kosch at HU Berlin. “Placebo-controlled studies are essential for accurate evaluation and validation to separate snake-oil from true innovation, to ensure the effectiveness of new technologies beyond hype.”