Anna Machin in TLS: ‘And there is now a robust body of evidence that shows that the nature of the relationships we build – their overall health, the strength of their emotional ties and the frequency with which we maintain them – is the primary factor in our mental and physical health.’

And: ‘But we also hear from those who have placed themselves at genuine risk at the hands of unregulated, unskilled AI therapists, or who have felt exploited by AI lovers that suddenly start to demand money to reveal intimate voice messages.’

As well: ‘AI therapists have potential, but his fear is that we end up with a two-tier society where the rich can afford the ministrations of human therapists, while the poor are left to deal with the limitations, and risks, of interacting with AI.’

AI is so much like a human, monetizing intimate messages.

And real humans are for the rich.

(a sf 2136)