In our increasingly atomized world where everybody is lonely, some researchers see an unexpected ally in artificial intelligence - as companions for the isolated.
As detailed in Wired, there's growing interest and investment in slightly intelligent robots and AI chatbots as a band-aid for people starved of social connection.
"The idea that there might be a low-cost solution that can mitigate feelings of loneliness is very attractive," says an official with the National Institute on Aging, and cautioned that it's too early to declare these chat dolls effective.
Proponents say AI-powered robots with basic language skills have potential, especially in understaffed nursing homes and for younger people struggling to forge bonds. Not surprisingly we’ve already seen this happen in Japan.
For an increasing number of people trapped in isolating circumstances, a somewhat intelligent machine to provide even basic interaction could be a lifeline, however artificial.
But decisions like this always remind me of one of my favorite movie lines ever. After learning of Jurassic Park, Jeff Goldblum’s character… Ian Malcolm said.,,
“Your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn't stop to think if they should.”
Perhaps the antidote to human loneliness is in humans connecting with humans. Or maybe I’m being too pollyanna.
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On that note, I'm james brown, and as always be well.
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