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Esther Perel on Artificial Intimacy (rerun)

Sep 6, 2024

Esther Perel, an acclaimed psychotherapist and relationship expert, dives into the complex impact of AI on human intimacy. She warns against the rise of 'Artificial Intimacy' and its threat to genuine connections. The discussion highlights the paradox of increased digital connectivity leading to loneliness. Perel emphasizes the importance of authentic relationships while critiquing the reliance on algorithms for emotional fulfillment. She urges a rethinking of technology's role in fostering real social bonds, rather than replacing them.

44:52

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Esther Perel

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Quick takeaways

Esther Perel highlights that the rise of artificial intimacy undermines genuine connections, leading to alienation despite increased digital interactions.

The podcast advocates for technology redesign that prioritizes enhancing real relationships, emphasizing the necessity of authentic human connections over mere convenience.

Deep dives

The Impact of Technology on Relationships

The conversation emphasizes how technology influences human relationships, specifically how it has shifted the dynamics of intimacy and connection. Ester Perel highlights that while technological advancements have provided numerous benefits, they often overshadow the essential human interactions necessary for meaningful relationships. She argues that society fails to prioritize relational health, with technology conferences focusing on areas like climate change or transportation, neglecting the equally vital topic of relationships. This oversight raises concerns about the implications for individuals who increasingly rely on technology for connections rather than fostering deep, personal bonds.

Embrace the Unknown to Find Yourself

01:50

Neglecting relationships and technological discourse

00:45

Hyper-Connectivity Masks True Loneliness

00:58

Prioritize Relationships in Technology

01:31

Intro

2min

Digital Intimacy: Navigating Modern Connections

24min

Redefining Connection in the Digital Age

4min

Navigating Transitional Objects and Human Connection

2min

The Complexity of Human Experience and the Misguided Quest to Erase Suffering

2min

Balancing Virtual and Physical Connections

11min

[This episode originally aired on August 17, 2023] 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.

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