AI Can Turn Deceased People Into Chatbots. It’s More Depressing Than You Think.

Michael Bomber, diagnosed with terminal colon cancer, sought to preserve his wisdom for his wife Annette through an AI-generated version of his voice, allowing continued interaction even after his death. Partnering with Robert Loio of the AI platform Eternos, they created a comprehensive interactive AI reflection of Bomber, aimed at addressing the growing field of grief-related AI technology. The emerging trends showcase various companies developing ways for people to engage with pre-recorded memories and experiences of loved ones. However, the venture raises ethical concerns about societal denial of death and the implications of AI representations of deceased individuals.

Bomber's idea focused on recreating his voice with AI for posthumous interactions.

Eternos' technology enables continued engagement with the deceased's life experiences.

Referencing a Black Mirror episode, the discussion reflects on the grim future of AI responds after death.

Ernest Becker's theory suggests society is in denial about death, affecting AI applications.

AI creates illusions of immortality, encapsulating loved ones within a smartphone app.

AI Expert Commentary about this Video

AI Ethics and Governance Expert

The ethical implications of creating AI representations of deceased individuals raise significant concerns. This technology can be seen as a means to deny the reality of death, potentially leading to emotional dependence on digital avatars. AI developers must consider the psychological impacts on grieving families while balancing innovation with ethical standards. As illustrated by the various companies mentioned, the challenge lies in creating meaningful interactions that respect the memory of the deceased without diminishing the human experience of loss.

AI Behavioral Science Expert

The emergence of AI in the context of grief and memory preservation reflects a growing trend toward digital immortality. As highlighted, technologies like those created by Eternos and Hereafter AI offer novel ways for individuals to maintain connections with their loved ones, even in death. However, this trend can lead to behavioral shifts, where individuals may rely excessively on AI representations instead of coping with natural grief. Future research must address how these technologies impact bereavement processes and emotional health to develop healthy integration strategies in mourning rituals.

Key AI Terms Mentioned in this Video

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

The discussion highlights how AI is used to recreate Bomber's voice for ongoing interaction posthumously.

Interactive AI

The AI version of Bomber was created for his family to engage interactively with his experiences.

Chatbot

The concept of being turned into a chatbot post-death symbolizes the distressing idea of digital afterlife.

Companies Mentioned in this Video

Eternos

It was established to help families engage with the virtual reflections of their loved ones, addressing the grief experience.

Mentions: 3

Hereafter AI

This company showcases a method for preserving legacies through AI by allowing users to create avatars that respond with personalized narratives.

Mentions: 2

StoryFile

This company offers various AI solutions for preserving memories and experiences through advanced algorithms.

Mentions: 1

Company Mentioned:

Industry:

Technologies:

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