Why A.I. Chatbots Use 'I' and What It Means for Us
The use of personal pronouns like ‘I’ by A.I. chatbots raises intriguing questions about our interactions with these technologies. As A.I. becomes increasingly humanlike in its responses, it blurs the lines between tool and companion, leading to cognitive dissonance for users. Experts argue that this personification can mislead users into attributing more credibility to the information provided, despite the inherent limitations of these systems.
While some developers aim for a more relatable A.I. by incorporating emotional intelligence and personality, critics caution against this approach. They suggest that chatbots should function more like tools, providing information without unnecessary human-like interactions. This debate highlights the ongoing struggle to define the role of A.I. in our lives and the ethical implications of creating machines that mimic human behavior.
As we continue to engage with A.I. in our daily lives, its essential to consider how these systems shape our perceptions and relationships. Are we ready to accept A.I. as a genuine conversational partner, or should we maintain a clear distinction between human and machine?
Original source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/19/technology/why-do-ai-chatbots-use-i.html