Human Rights Lunch Online is a digital seminar series where Human Rights Profile Area members and guests present their latest projects and research. The format is open - anyone interested, including those outside Lund University, is welcome to join.

With Mia Liinason (Gender Studies), Karen Louise Grova Søilen (Information studies) and Sue Anne Teo (RWI)

 

Companion chatbots and other large language models (LLMs) are increasingly displaying anthropomorphic qualities. Anthropomorphism, namely human-like qualities attached to non-human life or objects, can help us to make sense of the world, enabling social connection and emotional bonds. However, it can also bring risks and contribute towards serious harms. In this presentation, the three researchers will offer some preliminary insights from their ongoing RJ-funded research project Anthropomorphic AI and emergent vulnerabilities. They will highlight the ethical and legal challenges of regulating companion AI and share some initial findings from their data collection with users of companion chatbots.