Robot Shrinks - Cracking the Human Nature Algorithm

Thanks to the folks at NPR for bringing us this story about the rise of Robot therapists.  Check out the Sim Sensei video:

On the up side

It’s great to talk to someone who understands you and can help you sort out your problems.  Someone who won’t judge you like other people might. 

Machines, games and avatars can also help you develop the skills to have difficult conversations, as Kognito is doing.  This has a great educational and therapeutic value.

On the down side

Great!  Now therapists won’t have jobs, and we won’t be able to hide our feelings from robots - can’t remain silent.  And if we do talk - and they don’t like what we say they can silence us.  Yes, I’m talking about the rise of killer robots who understand us better than our fellow humans.

Better than Human

It’s a sad day when people are more comfortable talking to machines than other people.  All part of the evolution of speech.  From The Oatmeal.