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Better Technology, Worse Motivation: Generative Artificial Intelligence’s Mediocrity Trap

Author

Listed:
  • Yvonne Jie Chen

    (Asian Development Bank)

  • Jie Gong

    (University of Hong Kong)

  • Jin Li

    (University of Hong Kong)

  • Zibo Zhao

    (Arizona State University)

Abstract

While generative artificial intelligence (AI) promises productive efficiency, it can paradoxically lead to lower quality work. We conducted an experiment with professional illustrators and found that AI assistance flattens the quality curve—it accelerates initial gains but sharply diminishes the returns on sustained effort. Faced with this, a significant number of professionals made a strategic choice: they sacrificed the final quality to save time. Our finding highlights a critical challenge for generative AI, which can weaken the motivation required for creative excellence and innovation. In developing economies, where governments may seek to boost growth by using generative AI to substitute for scarce skills, our results suggest that such gains may come at the cost of the sustained effort through which higher-quality work and expertise are built.

Suggested Citation

  • Yvonne Jie Chen & Jie Gong & Jin Li & Zibo Zhao, 2026. "Better Technology, Worse Motivation: Generative Artificial Intelligence’s Mediocrity Trap," ADB Economics Working Paper Series 862, Asian Development Bank.
    • Handle: RePEc:ris:adbewp:023629
    DOI: 10.22617/WPS260411-2
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making
    • O31 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Innovation and Invention: Processes and Incentives
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • M50 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Personnel Economics - - - General

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