Human Bonding, the Future of AGI, and Robotic/Biomimetic Pets: Should We Be Worried?
Human Bonding, the Future of AGI, and Robotic/Biomimetic Pets: Should We Be Worried?
Speaker:
Patrick Flynn, DVM, MS (Anthrozoology)
Q&A moderator:
Jennifer Larsen, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVIM (Nutrition)
Event date: 1 May 2025 St. Louis, Missouri, USA
Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics have enabled robotic pets to move from the realm of science fiction to a tangible, increasingly lifelike reality. Although humans can and do form emotional attachments with nonliving things, there is considerable debate on whether AI-driven robotic pets can truly replace the emotional and psychological bonds formed with real, living dogs and cats. This presentation will start with a brief overview on AI and artificial general intelligence (AGI), followed by a discussion of how humans form emotional bonds with living and nonliving things, including the ability of humans to bond to a robotic pet. Finally, the session will explore the potential of robotic pets, examining their advantages and limitations as companions, therapeutic tools, and educational aids.
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