Ep123 "Will AI cure loneliness?" with Paul Bloom

In this episode of Inner Cosmos, David Eagleman interviews psychology professor Paul Bloom about the implications of AI companions on loneliness. They discuss loneliness as a biological signal that encourages social connection and the potential drawbacks of using AI to mute this signal, especially for younger people who need to develop social skills. While acknowledging AI's potential to alleviate loneliness for the elderly and isolated, they explore whether relying on AI companions could erode essential aspects of human interaction, such as the friction and struggles that lead to personal growth and creativity. They also consider the possibility of AI evolving to provide constructive feedback, but question whether people will ultimately prefer sycophantic AI companions.