AI Reveals Gaps in Expertise, Not Replacing It, Economist Says

John A. List observes AI often produces outputs that are "very wrong" or "nearly right", requiring critical thinking skills to spot the difference.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Economist John A. List says that while he was initially worried AI might make critical thinkers less valuable, his fears have been assuaged. After observing professionals present AI-generated material that sounded polished and persuasive, List found they didn't fully understand what they were presenting. He believes this dynamic strengthens the case for human expertise, as the people who can distinguish "nearly right" from "right" are more valuable than ever.

Why it matters

List's observations highlight the risks of overrelying on AI, as the technology can expose gaps in understanding rather than replace expertise. As AI becomes more prevalent, there are concerns about co-dependency with language models and a gradual loss of critical thinking skills over time.

The details

List, a Kenneth C. Griffin Distinguished Service Professor of Economics at the University of Chicago and chief economist at Walmart, has spent the past six months working with nonprofits, corporations, and government agencies. He has watched professionals present AI-generated material that sounded polished and persuasive, but when pushed, their understanding crumbled. List believes creating knowledge still matters, and the people who can distinguish "nearly right" from "right" are more valuable than ever.

  • Over the past six months, List has observed the use of AI in various organizations.

The players

John A. List

A Kenneth C. Griffin Distinguished Service Professor of Economics at the University of Chicago and chief economist at Walmart.

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What they’re saying

“The words sound right. But when someone pushes back just a little bit, the sand castle crumbles.”

— John A. List, Economist (X)

The takeaway

As AI becomes more prevalent, there is a risk of overreliance on the technology, which can expose gaps in understanding rather than replace expertise. The ability to critically evaluate AI-generated outputs and distinguish "nearly right" from "right" is becoming increasingly valuable.