AI is making me anxious and stupid (tom.so)

A recent perspective piece highlights the growing anxiety and diminished self-confidence among developers as they increasingly rely on advanced AI models like Claude and Codex. The author reflects on how these large language models (LLMs) have not only improved in capability but also created a dependency that leads to self-doubt and a diminished understanding of fundamental engineering principles. As developers become accustomed to prompting AI for even simple tasks, the fear of making mistakes or not knowing enough grows, echoing the author’s feelings of inadequacy—akin to the “Mr. Clumsy” character from the Mr. Men series. This sentiment is significant for the AI/ML community as it raises critical concerns about over-reliance on AI tools and the potential erosion of foundational skills among engineers, especially newer professionals. While LLMs can enhance productivity, there’s a danger that they may also hinder deep learning and problem-solving abilities. The author urges developers to strike a balance; rather than becoming overly reliant on AI, they should cultivate their skills and confidence, embracing failures as valuable learning experiences. This discussion serves as a reminder that while AI can be an empowering tool, it should not replace the core competencies that define skilled developers.