Your Undivided Attention

Esther Perel on Artificial Intimacy

Aug 17, 2023

Esther Perel, acclaimed psychotherapist and relationship expert, discusses the rise of Artificial Intimacy and the impact of technology on relationships. They explore the limitations of AI-assisted therapy and the importance of genuine human connection. The speakers delve into the regressive nature of imaginary friends and the need to embrace the full range of human experiences. They also discuss the potential ramifications of virtual relationships and the importance of real human connection for mental and relational well-being.

44:07

Creator website

Episode guests

Esther Perel

AI Summary

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Artificial intimacy provided by technology can lower expectations and reduce the complexity and richness of human relationships.

Designers and developers have a responsibility to create technology that fosters meaningful connection and supports healthy relationships.

Deep dives

The Impact of Technology on Relationships

Technology conferences often overlook the importance of relationships in their discussions. While there are moonshots for various fields, relationships are neglected in technological advancements. However, technology profoundly affects our ability to relate to others and ourselves.

The Impact of Technology on Relationships: A Neglected Challenge

01:12

The Impact of Predictive Technologies and AI on Human Relationships

03:32

The Impact of Technology on Relationships and the Paradox of Modern Loneliness

02:57

Exploring Artificial Intimacy and its Impact on Relationships

02:28

Introduction

3min

The Impact of Technology on Intimacy

26min

The Regressive Nature of Imaginary Friends and the Depth of Human Experience

2min

The Erasure of Suffering and the Importance of Being Alive

2min

Blending Virtual and Real-World Experiences

4min

Artificial Intimacy and the Importance of Real Human Connection

6min

For all the talk about AI, we rarely hear about how it will change our relationships. As we swipe to find love and consult chatbot therapists, acclaimed psychotherapist and relationship expert Esther Perel warns that there’s another harmful “AI” on the rise — Artificial Intimacy — and how it is depriving us of real connection. Tristan and Esther discuss how depending on algorithms can fuel alienation, and then imagine how we might design technology to strengthen our social bonds.

RECOMMENDED MEDIA

Mating in Captivity by Esther Perel

Esther's debut work on the intricacies behind modern relationships, and the dichotomy of domesticity and sexual desire

The State of Affairs by Esther Perel

Esther takes a look at modern relationships through the lens of infidelity

Where Should We Begin? with Esther Perel

Listen in as real couples in search of help bare the raw and profound details of their stories

How’s Work? with Esther Perel

Esther’s podcast that focuses on the hard conversations we're afraid to have at work

Lars and the Real Girl (2007)

A young man strikes up an unconventional relationship with a doll he finds on the internet

Her (2013)