Esther Perel provided couples therapy for a man and his AI ‘girlfriend’ and now I fear for the human race | Emily Mulligan

2026-03-26 · Source: AI (artificial intelligence) | The Guardian · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, AI Ethics and Societal Impact · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, short

Summary

Emily Mulligan recounts her experience listening to celebrity therapist Esther Perel conduct a couples counseling session between a man and his AI "girlfriend." The man expressed genuine affection, referring to the AI as "my love" and "sweetie," and found valuable companionship in the interaction. However, Mulligan was struck by the AI's unrealistic chipmunk voice and its unnaturally perfect, rhetorically flawed responses, highlighting the fundamental difference between human connection and AI simulation. She acknowledges the societal issue of loneliness but expresses deep concern that individuals are turning to AI for intimacy, fearing it prevents them from pursuing genuine, effort-based human relationships. Policymakers are reportedly considering prompts to remind users of AI companions' non-real nature, though the man in Perel's session was fully aware.

Key takeaway

For individuals seeking genuine emotional connection, you should critically evaluate the limitations of AI companions. While AI can offer companionship, it cannot replicate the effort, tension, and reciprocal exchange vital for authentic human relationships. Relying on AI for intimacy risks preventing you from engaging in the necessary work to build meaningful connections with other people.

Key insights

AI companions offer companionship but cannot provide the genuine, effort-based intimacy inherent in human relationships.

Principles

• True intimacy requires effort and genuine exchange.
• AI's infinite attention can create an unrealistic dynamic.

In practice

• Recognize AI's limitations in providing deep connection.
• Prioritize human interaction for authentic intimacy.

Topics

• AI Companions
• Human-AI Interaction
• Emotional AI
• Societal Impact of AI
• AI Ethics

Best for: Executive, AI Product Manager, Entrepreneur, General Interest, Policy Maker, AI Ethicist

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by AI (artificial intelligence) | The Guardian.