Conference: 'The future of atention'

'Coevolution, Plasticity, and Cognitive Reorganization in the Age of Generative Artificial Intelligence'

The human brain is, in part, the result of a long process of coevolution with technology. Our cognitive abilities enabled the use of tools, and those tools, in turn, transformed our capacities—particularly attention, working memory, social learning, and complex problem-solving. From writing to calculators and GPS navigation systems, we have externalized part of our cognitive functions into artifacts that extend, reorganize, and sometimes replace our abilities.

Generative artificial intelligence marks a turning point in this process. For the first time, we are delegating not only memory, navigation, or calculation, but also processes whose outputs are functionally analogous to inductive, deductive, and abductive reasoning. We do so through systems of increasing scope and sophistication, regardless of the ongoing debate about whether the internal processes of these models can truly be described as reasoning.

This lecture will review the still emerging evidence provided by neuroscience and psychobiology regarding the intensive use of artificial intelligence, offering an opportunity to reflect on which cognitive abilities may be at risk of erosion, which may be strengthened through deliberate cultivation, and what all this means for the design of trustworthy systems, human–machine interaction, and user education.

This lecture is part of the activities programme of the USC-Plexus Chair on AI Applied to Precision Personalized Medicine, led by CiTIUS. The initiative aims to foster critical reflection on the impact of artificial intelligence in areas of strategic importance for society. While primarily focused on healthcare, the Chair also addresses broader issues related to human–AI interaction, trust in emerging technologies, and the challenges associated with their adoption.

About the speaker

Dr. Gustavo G. Diez holds a PhD in Neuroscience and degrees in Theoretical Physics, Psychobiology, and Artificial Intelligence. He is Director of Nirakara Lab and a researcher at the Hygeia Biomedical Foundation. His work integrates neuroscience, psychobiology, and artificial intelligence to investigate how lifestyle factors influence brain health. His research has focused particularly on interoception and the role of respiratory rhythms in brain dynamics, self-regulation, and mental health.