Course Video & Notes

Hi folks!

Izah, Tash, Mia and I (Elsie) will be doing a presentation titled, “Bonding with Bots: AI Anthropomorphism in the Digital Age”.

Our presentation is centered on exploring what happens when we not only use AI to get efficient results, but to fill deep emotional/relational gaps. That’s exactly what AI companion apps like Replika and Anima have been designed to do.

Anthropomorphism—the attribution of human traits, emotions, intentions, or behaviors to non-human entities—is not something unique to AI. We have been doing it for ages with animals, “blankies” and even rocks, to name a few. However, AI’s ability for very human-like communication takes the illusion of “humanness” to a whole new level.

We explore what effects this could have on human’s mental health and relationships, and what safeguards governments are putting in place to regulate it.

Below is our outline of our presentation:

1. Introductory Video
2. Defining AI Anthropomorphism & Understanding Why We Do It
3. Company Incentives to Anthropomorphise AI
4. Discussing the Effects of AI Anthropomorphism on Mental Health and Relationships
5. Examining Current Policies on AI Anthropomorphism Globally
6. What Are Our Policy Recommendations?

Looking forward to next week’s class! Thanks everyone!