# The Role of Large Language Models in Reflecting Human Cognition - Response By:: [[Ross Jackson]] 2025-09-08 It would be foolish indeed to reject LLMs as, at least a potential, means of extending our thinking beyond the reaches of our limited existence. There is certainly potential. Sadly, like most situations regarding potential, it will be realized by only a few and squandered by most. Technology confronts humanity with the two faces of Janus. The adroit will use LLMs beneficially as a tool that accelerates their thinking, learning, and skills. The majority will use it detrimentally as a quick and pain-free way to outsource the core of their humanity, critical thinking. LLMs offer both, and the tool is indifferent as to which is selected. This indifference does not extend to those who build, train, and offer LLMs for public use. Any tool has a use-value. But tools created under capitalism also have an exchange-value. Many of the early and popular LLMs are currently available for free. One should question why something of value would be provided for free. In economics, the saying goes, “there is no such thing as a free lunch.” Drug pushers offer an initial hit for free, too, knowing that once one is hooked, the money will start to flow. LLMs provide a basis for humanity to extend beyond itself. LLMs provide an equally valid basis for humanity to contract to something significantly less than itself. It will do both, but not in equal proportion. The elite will benefit enormously as they use it as a means of oppressing the masses, a few will find it useful as they judiciously refine their thinking and skills, and most will become increasingly enslaved to it as their ability to think atrophies. Only the slimmest few between these extremes hold any chance of enhancing their humanity through LLMs. #### Related Items [[Artificial Intelligence]] [[Technology]] [[Thinking]] [[Capitalism]] [[Economics]] [[Dialogue - The Role of Large Language Models in Reflecting Human Cognition]]