Navigating the AI Companion Landscape

This chapter examines the dual-edged nature of AI companions in personal and professional contexts, addressing ethical concerns such as data privacy and algorithmic discrimination. Through a survey of teenagers, it reveals that while many engage with AI for entertainment, a significant majority still value human connections, raising questions about the impact of these technological interactions on social behavior. The discussion critiques societal narratives around AI, contrasting potential benefits with the risks of isolation and exploitation in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.