Narrows, Detours, and Dead Ends—How Cognitive Scaffolds Can Constrain the Mind

The chapter challenges the notion that cognitive tools are universally beneficial and should always be deeply integrated into cognitive systems. Instead, it proposes a taxonomy that recognizes the existence of hostile and detrimental tools and suggests that some tools might be better suited remaining on the periphery of an extended cognitive system. The chapter explores the moral implications of deep integration between cognitive tools and systems, highlighting three potential detriments: narrows, detours, and dead ends. These adverse effects present moral challenges and call for cautious consideration during technology development. The text emphasizes that the list of detrimental effects is likely to expand as technology advances and further investigations uncover additional impacts on cognitive systems.