Nepal, June 25 -- In the age of large language models (LLMs) and generative AI, we are witnessing an unprecedented transformation in how knowledge is produced, disseminated and consumed. These tools can summarise dense texts, write code, draft legal contracts, or respond to philosophical questions in seconds.

LLMs, we are told, make us more efficient, simplify complex work, automate mundane tasks and allow us to focus on what matters. But as we marvel at their capabilities, a pressing concern emerges: Are these models genuinely boosting efficiency, or are they subtly eroding our capacity for independent thought, judgment and critical reflection?

Efficiency is not a neutral term. It reflects values, what we choose to prioritise, what we ...