Principlev1
Test AI interactions for cognitive extension versus
Test AI interactions for cognitive extension versus replacement by assessing whether you understand more after the interaction and could reconstruct the reasoning independently, because partnership requires mutual capability growth while delegation produces dependence.
Why This Is a Principle
Derives from Constructivist Epistemology (knowledge is actively constructed), Learning occurs when outcomes differ from predictions, (learning requires prediction error), and Autonomy is the felt sense of being the author of your own (autonomy is being author of own actions). The principle prescribes a litmus test: genuine cognitive extension increases your capability while replacement decreases it. This distinguishes productive AI use from intellectual outsourcing.