As Artificial Intelligence (AI) takes up more and more space in our daily chores, a new study finds out it can also kill human loneliness, as WHO described it as a “global health threat” last year in November.
Robotics expert, Tony Prescott, from the University of Sheffield, UK, argued in his new book, The Psychology of Artificial Intelligence, that “relationships with AIs can support people” with forms of social interaction.
When people feel lonely, they often become more isolated as their confidence declines. AI could help “break the cycle” by providing a way to practice and improve social skills, according to Tony, a Professor of cognitive robotics.
While many people describe their lives as lonely, Tony suggested that AI companionship could offer valuable reciprocal social interaction that is both stimulating and personalised.
“AI companionship could help break this cycle by boosting feelings of self-worth and helping maintain or improve social skills. Consequently, relationships with AIs could support people in finding companionship with both humans and artificial beings,” he added.
According to IANS, the professor examines the nature of the human mind and its cognitive processes, comparing and contrasting these with the development of AI. He highlighted that the collaboration between psychology and AI “can unlock further insights into both natural and artificial intelligence.”
