Would You Rather Have An AI or a Human Therapist? #79

Jan 18

On this episode of Doorknob Comments, Fara and Grant are joined by Professor Nir Eisikovits, a philosopher and the founding director of the Applied Ethics Center at UMass Boston. They delve into the intersection of artificial intelligence, ethics, and psychotherapy, exploring how AI technologies can impact therapeutic practices. The discussion highlights the growing loneliness crisis and the potential role of chatbots in providing accessible mental health support, while also addressing the ethical implications and potential hazards of automating therapy. Professor Eisikovits shares insights from his research on the moral dilemmas surrounding technology and war, questioning whether AI can genuinely replicate human empathy and emotional connections in therapeutic settings. The episode raises critical questions about the future of psychotherapy in an age increasingly influenced by AI advancements.

We hope you enjoy it.