AI chatbots may ease the world's loneliness (if they don't make it worse)
Briefly

the Surgeon General's advisory highlights a growing issue of loneliness across all demographics, emphasizing the need for a national strategy to address its emotional and physical harms.
While AI may not be a cure-all for loneliness, it can serve as a social tool, with researchers looking into empathic AI's role as a potential companion.
Studies suggest that AI could effectively assume the roles of friends, therapists, or even romantic partners, but this raises questions about the implications of such interactions.
Engaging with chatbots like Replika and Character.AI allowed me to explore their potential in alleviating feelings of loneliness, providing companionship when needed.
Read at Big Think
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