Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Human Relations

This book stimulates new conversations around the ethical and policy considerations stemming from the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on human relationships within a cross-cultural perspective. With chapters from distinguished scholars from Eastern and Western backgrounds, it delves into the fundamental aspects of human connections and good governance, examining them through the perspectives of both Eastern and Western values, while addressing the implications of AI. While the recognition of AI's substantial challenges to human values and effective governance is widespread, there exists a notable lack of focus on its impact on the essential human relationships that embody these values and encompass human identity within Eastern and Western traditions. By centering attention on this aspect, the book highlights a critical concern for the development of AI that is suitable for the future of human relationships and good governance. Specifically, the book seeks to examine the influence of AI on essential human relationships, such as those between parent and child, spouses, the elderly and the young, physician and patient, as well as relations between friends, citizens, and nations. It is an essential resource relevant to academics in philosophy, applied ethics and bioethics, AI ethics, social and political philosophy.

Berggruen Institute Sr. Vice President Bing Song contributed a chapter titled “Universal Camaraderie: Reconceptualizing Our Relationship with Artificial Intelligent Systems,” in which she proposes a refreshing way of thinking about AI — as “companions” within a holistic human ethical order. She argues for non-living things to be viewed as companions of the same metaphysical origin, whose presence can serve as catalysts for human collective self-inquiry and spiritual growth.

Jennifer Bourne, Berggruen Institute Director of Global Initiatives and Operations, also contributed a chapter, titled“A Cross-Cultural Perspective on Human–Care Robot Interactions,” which looks at how culture shapes the way people connect with robots — from communication styles and interaction patterns to the robot’s voice and appearance. She argues that by aligning robotic design with cultural nuances, care robots can transcend their mechanical nature and be perceived as genuine companions, enriching people’s quality of life and social connections.