Should AI write research papers? Academics are divided
The scientific journal Nature asked 5,000 researchers from around the globe. 65% said it’s OK to use AI to write all or part of research papers while the remaining third felt this was unethical. 90% of respondents had no problem using AI for editing or translating. The number of papers that show signs of AI use are rising, according to Nature but only 8% of respondents admitted to using AI to write a paper for the journal.
The academic world is split on whether AI should be used to write research papers. In a global survey by the journal Nature, 65% of researchers said they support AI-assisted writing, while one-third believe it’s unethical. A vast majority - 90% - are comfortable with AI for editing or translation. Yet despite growing signs of AI use in manuscripts, only 8% admitted to using AI to write for Nature.
AI's wider impact: brain health, energy use and autonomy
Elsewhere in tech, new research shows that screen time might help preserve cognitive health in older adults. A meta-analysis of 57 studies found that people over 50 who regularly use digital devices face a 58% lower risk of cognitive decline, possibly due to tech’s role in learning and social connection.
Meanwhile, AI’s rising energy demands are under scrutiny. It’s estimated that by year-end, AI could be responsible for up to 50% of data centres’ power use. Long-term, AI might consume as much electricity as Japan, according to the IEA.
Lastly, nearly half of US tech firms are now using AI agents, autonomous systems that can act without human input. EY reports that in many firms, over half of AI operations could be fully autonomous within the next two years.
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