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AI Companions: Synthetic Social Connections in the Age of Human-Machine Bonds
Hardcover
ISBN13: 9783032418593
Publisher: Palgrave MacMillan
Published: Jan 1 2027
Language: English
This book views generative AI through a socio-cultural lens, grounding aspects of AI in applicable theoretical orientations and methodologies. Specifically, this book focuses on the role of synthetic relationships humans have with conversational chatbots and AI companions in the context of parasocial interaction, imaginary social relations, and the newer concept of mediated social connections the author has developed in previous work. The book places synthetic companions within a broader theoretical context. AI companions, whether Character AI, Replika AI, or other similar platforms, or ChatGPT among conversational chatbots, fulfill social roles similar to traditional ones, such as friends, lovers, mentors, and psychotherapists or counselors, as this book explores social connections with non-humans and how AI companions influence emotional well-being and behavior. This investigation challenges traditional ideas of companionship and redefines what it means to connect in a world increasingly integrated with technology and artificial intelligence.
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