The rise of artificial intelligence has led to a new category called deadbots, which are computer rituals that push the limits of existence. These virtual twins, brought to life through algorithms, present the ability to recall anecdotes and engage in video chats. Companies managing these robots lack regulation and controls, leading to concerns about misinformation, emotional impacts on users, and legal issues protecting the image and likeness of individuals, even after death.
The post-mortem industry has leveraged Generative AI to create intangible replicas of deceased individuals with the goal of transcending the biological phase of the body. These deadbots trace the digital footprints of the deceased to create a synthetic identity, forming the consciousness of virtual twins using data and language patterns from social media.
The commercialization of ghost robots, or ghostbots, has raised ethical concerns about commodifying intimate ties and reshaping our relationship with the deceased. The creation of deadbots has sparked a debate on privacy, data protection, and the moral dilemmas associated with resurrecting the deceased.
Studies have shown that the digital resurrection of deceased individuals through these AI systems can have detrimental effects on mental health, especially among minors. Issues such as repetition, reminders of loss, and the ethical implications of recreating a person’s identity using AI systems have been highlighted by experts.
As technology continues to advance in this area, it is important for policymakers and ethicists to address these concerns and ensure that companies managing these robots are held accountable for their actions. It is essential that we consider both technological advancements and ethical implications when developing new technologies that touch upon death and grief.
