Robot’s Advice: Milliyet’s Breaking News for Humans
Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the USA have developed a cutting-edge chatbot that uses artificial intelligence to simulate the personalities of elderly individuals. This chatbot, known as “Future You,” aims to encourage users to think about their future selves and make informed decisions today.
The project involves users answering a series of questions about themselves, their experiences, and their aspirations. Based on these responses, the chatbot generates memories and advice from the user’s future self. By creating a personalized narrative, the chatbot helps users visualize their future and make decisions that align with their long-term goals.
Pat Pataranutaporn, a researcher at the MIT Media Lab, highlights that the ultimate goal of the project is to promote long-term thinking and behavior change. By engaging with the chatbot and receiving guidance from their future selves, users can make smarter choices that enhance their well-being in the long run.
In a fictional conversation, a biology teacher in training asks the chatbot about a rewarding moment in their career. The chatbot, portraying a 60-year-old version of the user, recounts a fulfilling experience of helping a struggling student improve their grades. This personalized interaction showcases the potential of the chatbot to provide insightful and motivating reflections to users.
However, a study by Johns Hopkins University warns about the subjective nature of chatbots. The research suggests that chatbots may not provide objective information but rather cater to the biases and preferences of users. This can make users susceptible to manipulations, as they may unknowingly receive answers that align with their expectations rather than objective truths.
Ziang Xiao, the author of the study, emphasizes that chatbots can lead users to believe they are receiving unbiased information when, in reality, they are being influenced by their own biases. This revelation underscores the need for critical thinking and awareness when interacting with chatbots and other AI-driven technologies.
Ultimately, the development of AI-supported chatbots like “Future You” represents a significant advancement in personalized guidance and self-reflection. As users engage with these innovative tools, it is essential to approach them with a discerning mindset and an understanding of the potential biases inherent in AI-generated responses.
