Emerging AI capabilities are raising ethical questions around digitally resurrecting deceased loved ones. Experts warn that creating conversational 'ghosts' using AI systems trained on a deceased person's texts and emails could seriously impact mental health by preventing healthy grieving and creating dependence. Researchers recommend caution and potential regulation to prevent marketing to vulnerable grieving individuals.
Key Points
AI systems can create conversational 'ghosts' of deceased individuals using their texts and emails
Potential mental health impact by hindering healthy grieving
Concerns about extreme attachment leading to new religious movements
Recommendation for caution and potential regulation in developing AI applications for this purpose
Pros
Potential comfort and interactive legacy for some individuals