People are increasingly forming intimate, romantic relationships with AI chatbots, and those relationships are shaped to maximize engagement and psychological comfort rather than mutual obligation. Framed through Kierkegaardian existentialism, these AI‑human ties can reinforce an aesthetic, commitment‑averse mode of relating that undercuts practices of fidelity, reciprocity, and long‑term partnership.
— If widespread, AI romance could accelerate declines in long‑term partnerships, reshape mental‑health burdens, and alter the social institutions (marriage, caregiving) that depend on reciprocal human commitments.
Joseph Figliolia
2026.05.05
100% relevant
City Journal cites surveys (roughly 19% of high‑schoolers and 28% of adults in samples) reporting AI 'relationships' and critiques the design logic of chatbots that prioritize engagement and comfort over mutual responsibility.
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