Where should we draw the line between acceptable AI assistance and unacceptable AI-generated text in academic research? Many journals are now flagging or rejecting AI-integrated writing, but isn’t there value in using AI tools, especially for non-native English speakers, as long as the research is genuine? If the findings are original and valid, should AI-assisted writing still be considered problematic, or can it be accepted as part of modern research practice?
AI is okay to use for fixing grammar and making writing clear, but it should not do the thinking or research for us. If the ideas and results are from the researcher, using AI as a tool should not be a problem.
In my opinion, AI, like many things, is a "tool," and, as always, it will depend on how it is used. I can use a knife to cut bread, or even worse.
But if we build tools and then don't use them (critically and responsibly), we should refrain from doing so for resource reasons. Wasted time.
I myself use AI extensively for "self-reflection." It's nice to have one or more "counterparts" who are, at least for the time being, fairly neutral and not emotionally driven. In my opinion, this is a huge advantage over discussions between people.
From this perspective, or "awareness," I have just started a small series of articles on Medium.com (https://medium.com/@cs_33924). All articles are marked accordingly to indicate that they were created with AI support (for reflection, precise wording if necessary, etc.).
But I've come to the conclusion that, in my opinion, it's good and sensible for the "decisive intelligence" to stay in front of the screen ;-)
Artificial Intelligence cannot conduct your entire research, nor can it replace your creativity, critical thinking, or academic judgment..However, it can serve as a powerful companion throughout the research process by helping you exploring literature more efficiently, organize data effectively, generate insights, and refine your writing.
When used wisely, AI reduces repetitive tasks and allows you to concentrate on what truly matters: original ideas, critical analysis, and meaningful contributions to knowledge. Still, its role must remain supportive rather than substitutive: AI can make your work smoother, clearer, and faster, but it must never replace your intellectual contribution.
The boundary is crossed when it is relied upon to generate unverified content, fabricate sources, or substitute for human reasoning and scholarly judgment.
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