The digital age has ushered in a provocative new possibility: using artificial intelligence to communicate with the departed. Known as 'deathbots,' these AI systems are designed to mimic the personalities and conversational styles of deceased individuals, creating a simulated dialogue with the dead.
The Illusion and Its Deep Roots
This concept, while seemingly futuristic, is not entirely new. As noted by media theorist Simone Natale, these modern 'technologies of illusion' have deep roots in longstanding spiritualist traditions. For centuries, people have sought ways to connect with those who have passed on. What makes the current era different is the role of advanced AI, which makes these simulations far more convincing and, consequently, more commercially viable than any seance from the past.
How AI Deathbots Work
These digital afterlife services typically operate by training an AI model on a person's digital footprint. This can include their text messages, emails, social media posts, and any other written material. The AI then analyzes patterns in their language, tone, and opinions to construct a chatbot that can respond to questions in a manner that closely resembles how the person might have. The result is a conversational agent that can provide a powerful, and for some, a comforting illusion of presence.
The Consequences and Ethical Landscape
The emergence of deathbots raises significant ethical and psychological questions. While they may offer a form of solace to the grieving, experts worry about the potential for emotional dependency and the distortion of memory. The technology also forces us to confront difficult issues about digital legacy and consent. The conversation around AI's role in our most personal moments is just beginning, and deathbots sit at its controversial centre.
