Artificial intelligence technology is now being used to create digital replicas of deceased loved ones through services like Silicon Intelligence and Super Brain. These “griefbots” are made using large language models, allowing them to interact with the living based on data such as text, photos, audio recordings, and videos.
In a recent paper published in Philosophy & Technology, researchers Katarzyna Nowaczyk-Basińska and Tomasz Hollanek from the University of Cambridge explored the risks associated with digital resurrection technologies. These technologies create a sense of “digital immortality” that blurs the lines between life and death, raising questions about human dignity in the age of AI.
One particular concern is the potential impact of these deadbots on children, as they may not fully understand the nature of these AI companions. Age-restricted access and safeguards to protect vulnerable individuals from potential harm are essential aspects that need to be considered in the development and use of such technologies.
Consent and awareness of interacting with AI entities are crucial in the use of deadbots, as users should be informed that they are not communicating with a conscious being. The sensitive handling of retiring or deleting these digital replicas is also imperative to respect the dignity of the deceased.
Cultural differences in dealing with death and grief should also be taken into account when implementing safeguards for deadbots. Different perceptions of AI-enabled simulations of death in various cultural contexts highlight the need for a nuanced and culturally sensitive approach to regulating these technologies.
As technology continues to advance, the urgent need for regulations and safeguards in the development and use of digital resurrection technologies becomes increasingly apparent. Irresponsible design decisions by commercial entities could further complicate the already challenging end-of-life situations faced by individuals, emphasizing the importance of ethical considerations and responsible technology design in this evolving landscape.
