In an age where artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into daily life, a new movement of people known as “AI vegans” is emerging. These individuals consciously choose to avoid using AI technologies, citing concerns that span environmental, ethical, and personal grounds.

This phenomenon raises important questions about the consequences of growing AI dependence, from its cognitive impact on individuals to broader social and environmental costs.

Why Choose to Abstain From AI?

The AI vegan movement stems from a multifaceted critique of AI’s role in modern society. For some, like those detailed by columnist Arwa Mahdawi, there’s a worry that overreliance on AI tools can weaken essential human abilities such as critical thinking and creativity. For instance, traditional skills like handwriting are reportedly disappearing, with keyboards replacing pen and paper, leading to cognitive and educational concerns.

Studies increasingly suggest that typing notes rather than writing them by hand diminishes the brain’s ability to internalize and retain information effectively. Given that AI automation often replaces manual or creative input, proponents argue this could have long-term neurological consequences.

The Ethical and Environmental Costs

Beyond personal impact, ethical concerns also weigh heavily. The AI industry relies on massive computational resources that consume enormous amounts of energy, contributing to significant environmental degradation. This environmental footprint runs counter to efforts to combat climate change.

Additionally, there is growing awareness about AI systems exploiting the labor of underpaid creatives who contribute copyrighted content used to train AI models without proper recognition or compensation.

Corporate Pressure and Social Implications

Despite these concerns, major technology companies advocate for widespread AI adoption. Figures such as Mark Zuckerberg have publicly warned that avoiding AI-powered devices like smart glasses could leave individuals at a “significant cognitive disadvantage”.

This pressure creates a societal tension between embracing innovation and protecting individual autonomy and well-being.

Reflecting on Our Digital Futures

The AI vegan movement invites a needed conversation about how society integrates new technologies responsibly. While AI offers undeniable benefits — from boosting productivity to solving complex problems — balancing these advantages with ethical considerations and human cognitive health is essential.

Whether or not AI vegans will grow into a wider cultural phenomenon remains to be seen, but their choice highlights the importance of critically evaluating the trade-offs of technological progress.

As Mahdawi notes, while technology evolves rapidly, it’s imperative we do not sacrifice fundamental human skills and values in the race toward an AI-driven future.