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Empty Calories of AI: A Cure for Loneliness Worse Than the Disease?

AI may keep us from being alone, but its presence could lead to a different kind of loneliness

Recent research from Harvard Business School suggests that AI companions can reduce feelings of loneliness, with effects comparable to human interaction.¹ But before we embrace this technological quick-fix, we should carefully consider whether we are repeating a familiar pattern: solving one problem by creating another, potentially more insidious one. Though Sewell knew the AI wasn’t real, his emotional dependence grew over months of constant interaction, eventually leading him to confide in the chatbot rather than seeking help from people who might have understood the severity of his distress. Just as readily available, calorie-dense fast food led to overeating and obesity, AI companions, by providing a quick and easy solution to loneliness, may discourage individuals from seeking meaningful human connection.

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