Further views on AI: mathematician Hannah Fry's documentaries on personal relationships with AI - a step too far or comfort for the lonely?

This very interesting documentary series hosted by Hannah Fry [mathematician], 'AI Confidential' is about the dangers/positives of relationships with AI. It begins with the case of Jaswant Singh Chail, who tried to assassinate Queen Elizabeth II at Windsor Castle, after discussing the possibility with his AI girlfriend. It ends with a man who has set up an AI site where you can replicate deceased relatives for comforting telephone chats.

There are many ethical considerations - responsibility, human emotional needs, exploiting the vulnerable, giving comfort to the lonely and bereaved. Do take a look - there are 3 in the series so far on BBC i-player. Are we heading blindly to dangerous times and if so, who or what is going to control this? Do you think these new capabilities will bring joy and comfort, or disappointment and danger? As a non-player of simulation games, I am curious about the positives or dangers about bringing virtual reality into real life.

Parents Reply
  • The article is very interesting. I can see the reasoning behind it. But I'm also thinking AI is useful for older people like me - sometimes I want or need to know things [to reduce the pressure of my thoughts] but too exhausted to look up a lot of references as I used to do. I suppose the answer is to maintain awareness of the downsides and use AI as a guide; like reading a Readers Digest condensed novel. 

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