My take: AI companionship is a net good on this world despite it's potential to contribute to systematic loneliness. Here's why:
Pros:
- access to companionship for those with limited options (think confined elderly)
- is a conduit for those with taboo fetishes
- helps to develop communication and relationship skills (especially if the bot doesn't let the user set unrealistic expectations)
- promotes exploration of oneself
- helps geographically isolated people (i.e. rural areas)
Cons:
- emotional dependency
- social isolation
- sets unrealistic relationship expectations
Interested in getting other people's takes here.
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