Professor Hannah Fry introduces her new program, AI Confidential, which delves into the most significant narratives emerging from the forefront of the AI revolution.

This compelling three-part documentary series begins on Monday, February 23, on BBC Two, and follows individuals who utilize AI to replicate their deceased loved ones or to enhance driving experiences with the semblance of friends and family. We had the opportunity to chat with her to gain further insights.

What is your perspective on artificial romance?

While I personally wouldn’t engage, I find it to be a fascinating spectrum. It resembles interactive romantic fiction, which isn’t inherently wrong.

On one end, you might fully believe that the AI you’re interacting with embodies the essence of the person you love, while on the other, it can simply enhance your imagination. Ultimately, it’s not entirely negative.

Are we nearing a future where AI may replace human relationships?

I can’t definitively say it will happen, but there’s a possibility it might.

Society seems increasingly isolated; social interactions have shifted, with more individuals working from home and spending less time outside.

The emergence of personal friendships with AI could exacerbate this trend.

What concerns you most about AI?

AI holds the potential to alienate us from our humanity and hinder genuine connections. Unlike self-driving cars, the subtle dangers of AI distancing us from our relationships can be more insidious.

While AI is being integrated into therapy, there’s a danger that it reinforces our existing beliefs, leading to greater isolation.

After producing this series, I realized how easliy this could manifest. Using an AI as a therapist during conflicts may lead to a skewed perspective that you’re solely in the right.

In contrast, a human therapist encourages you to consider different viewpoints. AI isn’t designed to tackle complex emotional issues; it can make self-radicalization all too easy. When engaging with AI, I often ask, “Please tell me when I’m wrong; I need a challenge.”

Can chatbot technology fill the void of loneliness?

Absolutely. However, if we dismiss the idea that AI can serve as therapists or empathetic companions, we risk overlooking the needs of the lonely and vulnerable. While in an ideal world, everyone would have meaningful connections, that is not our reality.

In AI Confidential, you meet Justin Harrison, who has developed AI capable of mimicking voices, allowing communication with departed loved ones. What are the implications of this grief technology?

It’s disconcerting that such technology targets people during their most vulnerable moments.

Initially, I was skeptical of Harrison’s perspective on grief, which suggested we should eliminate sadness entirely, reflecting an inability to accept death. This approach seemed irresponsible to me.

However, as I contemplated my own recent loss, I understood how this technology could be an extension of what people often do to cope with longing for loved ones. It could provide comfort at acute stages of grief, especially in cases of unexpected loss.

Although I didn’t anticipate becoming emotional on camera, sharing that moment was crucial, as it illustrated our deeply human story. Ideally, AI should enhance our humanity, not detract from it.

That moment deepened my empathy for those who experience isolation. We all seek connection.

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What are the risks associated with personal AI agents?

We’re on the brink of launching personal AI agents that could manage tasks online, such as planning vacations.

These agents will interact with corporate representatives, raising concerns about whether they will act in your best interest. As much of our infrastructure relies on the internet, catastrophic failures could occur.

Imagine if someone manipulated an AI to disrupt power supplies in major areas. The repercussions could escalate significantly.

Companies recognize these risks and are striving to mitigate them.

Will AI ultimately dominate the world?

Not if I have anything to say about it!

AI presents significant challenges, but when managed responsibly, it can serve as a powerful tool for good.

Currently, AI acts as a catalyst, streamlining tasks and enhancing skills. Many individuals benefit from using AI for educational purposes, making learning more efficient and developing new abilities.

AI could also lead to breakthroughs like unlimited clean energy or fresh water for all. We could even transform desert areas into flourishing ecosystems.

Humanity has largely existed in a world marked by scarcity, but with advances in AI, we may unlock realms of abundance, offering solutions to various ailments and societal challenges.

While these transformations won’t happen overnight, the potential remains significant.

How can we ensure AI benefits society?

Companies can take proactive steps, such as recognizing signs of distress or AI dependency during interactions.

We should prioritize concerns around AI, as awareness drives change.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Tune into AI Confidential now on BBC Two or BBC iPlayer starting Monday, February 23rd.

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