AI as Cognitive Ecology: Revealing the Invisible Cognitive, Cultural, and Epistemic Costs of Generative Models

Godson Ozioma, Sebastian Obeta*, Dr Ikpe Ibanga, Linda Oraegbunam, Ruth Imanria Itua, Dr Augustina Amaefule, Emmanuel Ozioma Ozioma, Chidinma Anumaka

Received : November 30, 2025 | Published : January 15, 2026

Citation: Ozioma, G., Obeta, S., Ibanga, I., Oraegbunam, L., Itua, R. I., Amaefule, A, Ozioma, E. O. and Anumaka, C. (2026) ‘AI as Cognitive Ecology: Revealing the Invisible Cognitive, Cultural, and Epistemic Costs of Generative Models’, Journal of Artificial Intelligence and AI Ethics, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 1–16.

Abstract

Recent debates on Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) have centred on quantifiable concerns such as computational cost, carbon emissions, and benchmark performance. Yet the most consequential risks may be those that are less visible: the gradual reshaping of human cognition, creativity, and epistemic trust. This paper introduces the concept of AI as cognitive ecology, situating generative systems not merely as tools or agents, but as a pervasive environment in which thought now unfolds. Building on this paradigm, we propose the HORIZON taxonomy of invisible costs: Homogenization, Offloading (deskilling), Resource externalities, Information integrity, Zoomed-in feedback loops, Organizational memory loss, and Normative drift. We illustrate each dimension through conceptual analysis and lightweight audits, and propose new indicators including DAO (Diversity of AI Outputs), CDQ (Cognitive Dependence Quotient), EIS (Epistemic Integrity Score), and RTE (Resource Transparency Equivalent). We argue that sustaining AI innovation requires not only technical and environmental monitoring, but active stewardship of cognitive ecologies.