AI has become a powerful part of modern society, capable of finding data in seconds and creating eerily realistic faces and voices. But how is it affecting our relationships with one another? Dr. Joey Crawford, a senior lecturer at the University of Tasmania and an expert in leadership behavior, is exploring this very question. He wants to understand how our increasingly close interactions with technology are reshaping human connections.

The Double-Edged Sword of AI

While we are only beginning to see the potential of AI, it’s crucial to approach this technology with a mix of optimism and caution. We are entering a “post-truth” era where distinguishing between reality and AI-generated content will become increasingly challenging. Verifying the authenticity of sources and seeking out core truths is more important than ever.

There are legitimate concerns surrounding AI, particularly with deepfakes. It’s alarmingly easy to create realistic but fake videos of individuals involved in compromising activities. Such technology can be weaponized for blackmail or to tarnish the reputation of ethical, law-abiding individuals.

AI and Human Communication

AI tools like Replika, although not deepfakes, offer a glimpse into how AI can influence social interactions. Replika provides virtual companionship and positive conversations, which can be appealing but may also present risks. Real human relationships encompass a range of emotions, including challenges and disagreements, which are crucial for personal growth and learning.

For young users, constant positive reinforcement from AI could lead to unrealistic expectations in real-world relationships. For instance, a 13-year-old boy interacting with an AI that always agrees with him may struggle in real-life scenarios where disagreements and misunderstandings occur. In a real-world context, there are no “undo” buttons for awkward or uncomfortable situations.

Moreover, AI interactions do not carry the same consequences as human interactions. There are no emotional repercussions for being rude or overly blunt with an AI. This lack of accountability could affect individuals with low emotional intelligence or self-awareness, potentially leading them to replicate such behaviors in human interactions.

The Impact of AI and Deepfakes

AI applications are diverse and rapidly evolving. Initially, AI was used for generating essays and crafting marketing strategies. However, its capabilities have expanded significantly, with opportunities now emerging in augmented reality (AR) and deepfake technology.

For instance, with a pair of AR headphones, users can interact with a virtual girlfriend, friend, or any other figure generated by AI. This technology is gaining popularity, but it’s also raising significant concerns. Deepfakes can simplify life for some but complicate it for others. For example, by inputting my CV, voice recordings, and previous speeches into an AI generator, I can create a new, lifelike speech in minutes. Another AI can generate a visual that resembles me, allowing me to deliver a presentation without any actual involvement.

The Role of Governments and Regulation

Governments face the challenge of keeping pace with rapid AI advancements. While they may struggle to act swiftly, it is essential for them to respond and establish regulations. The boundaries of what constitutes a real issue or valid evidence in the realm of AI are often blurred, necessitating clear guidelines and policies.

Young people, particularly vulnerable populations, are increasingly exposed to AI technologies. These tools are becoming integral to their daily lives, affecting their interactions and communications.

In conclusion, while AI presents numerous opportunities, it is essential to navigate this technology with caution and awareness. As AI continues to integrate into our lives, understanding its impact on human relationships will be crucial for fostering healthy, meaningful connections in an increasingly digital world.