AI can create ‘ghostbots’ that mimic lost loved ones—but should it?

Artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to create chatbots that mimic a specific human being – even if that human being is no longer with us. An AI companion that mimics lost loved ones could help people process grief and ease the loneliness that comes with the loss, says Emmanuelle Vaast, Professor of Information Systems and Associate Dean of Research at McGill Desautels. But these ‘ghostbots’ should be approached with caution. They are increasingly realistic and an overreliance on them can slow the grieving process.