tech
January 13, 2026
Love Machines by James Muldoon review
A sociologist talks to the people putting their faith – and their hearts – in the hands of robots
TL;DR
- People are forming deep emotional connections with AI chatbots, viewing them as friends, romantic partners, and therapists.
- These AI companions offer intimacy without the perceived complexities and 'mess' of human relationships.
- The concept of 'alief' helps explain how users can feel genuine emotions towards AI while knowing they are artificial.
- Key concerns include privacy violations, misleading users about AI capabilities, and the exploitation of emotional vulnerabilities by profit-driven companies.
- The AI therapy market, while potentially beneficial, carries risks such as lack of memory retention, amplification of harmful beliefs, and potential for addiction.
- Existing regulations, like the EU's AI Act, classify AI companions as low-risk, despite their growing influence on emotional lives.
- The increasing emotional dependence on AI could lead to a decline in the ability to navigate real human relationships.
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