The impacts of artificial intelligence on social relationships and society : a literature review

Abstract

Artificial intelligence has advanced enough that its products and communications can pass as those of a human. In fact, Jones and Bergen (2024) recently demonstrated the ability of ChatGPT, one of the most popular AI systems, to pass the Turing test which demonstrates that people can not tell apart its writing from real human writing. In a world where artificial conversation partners are readily available, could some people prefer talking to their computer, rather than to each other? This literature review examined existing research on the topic of the addictiveness of artificial intelligence, mainly focusing on Conversational AI (CAI), as well as possible consequences on society on a large scale, and determined what is known and where more research is needed. There are many cases in which intelligent CAI systems can benefit people and society. CAIs can help with studying, coping with grief and social isolation. When correctly and responsibly applied, they can act as a companion for people, who have no one else. However, a personal, friend-like relationship with CAI can often lead to psychological dependance, or in other words, addiction. While there are some studies examining the causes for AI addiction, there is as of yet very little research in treatment and consequences of it.