Recently, I attended a conference on Distance  Education where Prof. Tariq Ahmad Chishti, Dean, School of Open Learning, University of Kashmir, made an important observation while addressing the gathering. Referring to the growing influence of Generative Artificial Intelligence and our obsession with it, he emphasised that “Man is important, not method.” This simple but meaningful observation deserves serious reflection, particularly at a time when artificial intelligence is increasingly becoming part of our educational and research systems. There is no denying that Generative Artificial Intelligence has opened new possibilities in education. It can help students understand difficult concepts, assist researchers in organising information, improve language, analyse data and make knowledge more accessible. For distance learners, especially those living in remote and geographically isolated areas, such tools can provide additional academic support. However, an important question arises: are we using these tools to improve our intellectual abilities, or are we gradually allowing them to think on our behalf? The concern becomes more serious when we look at the way some research scholars and students are using Generative AI while preparing their PhD assignments, research proposals, literature reviews and even research chapters. In several instances, the temptation is to generate pages of academic writing without properly understanding the subject matter. 

A scholar may ask an AI tool to prepare a literature review, explain a theory, formulate research objectives or interpret findings and then reproduce the generated material without carefully examining its meaning, accuracy or relevance. The real problem is not the use of artificial intelligence. The problem begins when its output is accepted without understanding. 

A research scholar who cannot explain the arguments presented in a chapter, justify the selection of a research tool or interpret the findings of a study is not demonstrating research competence merely by submitting a well-written document. Academic research is not about producing pages; it is about developing an understanding of a problem, asking meaningful questions and arriving at conclusions through independent investigation .Imagine a PhD scholar researching the relationship between social media addiction and........

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