Governance mechanisms for mitigating AI challenges to human intelligence: A conceptual framework analysis

Abstract

This study proposes a dynamic governance model to guide the interaction between artificial intelligence (AI) and human intelligence. It focuses on mechanisms that mitigate AI's impact on human cognition while promoting innovation, ethical responsibility, and alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines a narrative literature review (2019–2024) from Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Research Rabbit with a structured development process. The model comprises three interconnected blocks: Governance, Human Intelligence, and Social Intelligence, each linked to specific SDGs. The Governance block emphasizes the responsible use of AI through regulatory policies that promote algorithmic fairness and data governance, aligning with SDGs 9 and 16. It also advocates for AI literacy and ethics education to foster inclusion and equality (SDGs 4 and 10) and implements safeguards such as transparency and accountability to ensure the ethical use of AI (SDGs 9 and 16). The Human Intelligence block examines AI's cognitive impacts, balancing cognitive augmentation in problem-solving (SDGs 4 and 9) with caution against the risks of over-reliance, such as cognitive erosion (SDG 4). The Social block highlights AI system assessments to enhance adaptation, inclusion, and equitable access (SDGs 10 and 16) while encouraging policy adjustments for sustainable innovation (SDGs 9 and 17). The study concludes that integrating these blocks is essential for achieving fair, inclusive, and sustainable technological development. Structured governance, incorporating ethical principles, social reform, and continuous monitoring, ensures the responsible adoption of AI, supporting the harmonious interaction between AI and human intelligence in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).