There’s a big loneliness epidemic right now – and many are wondering if can artificial intelligence help. Read on…
Oftentimes, when someone is stressed out, one of the most common pieces of advice found online would be to just unplug for a while and stay away from technology.
But what if technology was one of the only few ways that you feel less lonely?
Loneliness has become a growing epidemic, affecting people of all genders and ages. While this has been happening during the pandemic, it was also happening prior to and even now after the lockdowns.
It’s not just about feeling isolated in romantic relationships. Many adults find themselves feeling disconnected in general. But there’s all these different apps, apps for friends, apps for dating, apps for hookups, app for finding random people online to chat with, and then there’s social media too.
So, if there are all these apps and websites, why is there still this feeling of loneliness? Well, it’s hard to give a clear answer to that, and now, there are so many apps and other AI-tech-driven products that are coming out to help with loneliness. So, can AI help address this loneliness, or might it make things worse?
It’s no secret that loneliness is on the rise. People are just busy, there are a lot of demands in normal life, some people have to work multiple jobs, there are more people that are no longer prioritizing relations (such as canceling someone last minute in the name of self-care), but other reasons too. Overall, it’s hard to form those deep and meaningful connections, and this is causing more depression and anxiety.
You have to keep in mind that artificial intelligence is still new. It’s not as intelligent or human-like as it is on that “Be Right Back” episode of Black Mirror. It’s not as witty as it is on The Jetsons, either. But can it help? Well, right now, it seems like AI technology has made leaps and bounds, offering solutions that seem to promise companionship and emotional support.
We’ve seen AI-powered apps that serve as virtual girlfriends and boyfriends, aiming to fill the void of human connection, the same can be said for physical intimacy as well for those who still crave that connection. But can it actually replace the full-on human touch and human connection?
Simple put it, it can help, but it’s not going to ever fully replace what a human and provide. So, you need to keep in mind that AI’s ability to mimic human interaction can indeed offer some relief from loneliness.
For those who struggle with social anxiety or have difficulty forming traditional relationships, AI companions can provide a non-judgmental and supportive presence. They can help alleviate feelings of isolation and offer a form of emotional support that might be hard to find elsewhere. But you still have to remember they’re not human, and they can’t replicate a human.
A perfect example would be the movie “Her”. Theodore’s bond with Samantha showcases the potential for AI to provide comfort and companionship, but it also underscores the limitations and differences between human and artificial relationships. Ai is, well, AI, it’s servicing thousands upon millions of people, and it can’t replicate love- exactly what made Theodore stop the “relationship” with Samantha.
The same can be said about that Black Mirror episode, the protagonist faces the facts that her deceased husband will never be replaced, and that an AI, even a physical robot that looks and sounds like him, isn’t going to replace the real him.
So, with this current loneliness epidemic can artificial intelligence help? The key lies in finding a balance. AI can be a valuable tool in combating loneliness, providing immediate relief and support (especially if you need help with someone). However, it should not be seen as a replacement for human connection. Ditto for owning a dog. Instead, it can serve as a supplementary aid, helping individuals build confidence and emotional resilience, which they can then apply to their human interactions.
This is still new, so it’s hard to say how the future might turn out.
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