Is AI reshaping human interactions? Could it take away our humanness?

The other day, I had a heated argument with my wife. Afterwards, I turned to ChatGPT to ask what I should do. I received all the right replies: “I hear you,” “I understand,” “It’s natural to feel that way,” “Totally fine.” These affirmations felt comforting at first. But then I realized this isn’t empathy. AI cannot feel.

Later, I went to my wife and repeated some of the lines I had learned from GPT. She felt deeply moved with sadness mixed with happiness, a storm of emotions. But inside me, I felt strangely empty. I could not share her depth of emotion. I missed the chance to feel with her. At that very moment, I lost something essential: my empathy.

Another time, I noticed a social media post by a friend. I could tell instantly it was heavily edited, maybe even generated by AI. I lost interest and didn’t read further. Deep down, what I really wanted was to hear my friend’s own thoughts, their genuine voice not the polished perfection of AI. Because human beings need human experiences. They are not perfect, but isn’t that exactly what makes us human?

I fear that our deepest need for connection is being eroded by AI. We all desire perfection, or at least to get closer to it. Maybe that is why we rely so much on AI: we want to appear more perfect, more complete. But are we bypassing the very struggle that defines the human journey? The emotional gymnastics of pain, sadness, growth, and joy the imperfection that makes us real?

When computers first came, we thought they would give us more free time to spend with loved ones. Instead, we brought the office into our homes. With smartphones, we became walking offices. Now with AI, if perfection is our goal, we may stop being vulnerable with each other. We may avoid sharing raw thoughts and emotions, missing the chance to learn from one another. We may settle for affirmations that give us quick dopamine, instead of messy but authentic human encounters.

I am not asking you to stop using AI, I use it too, and I don’t claim a moral high ground. But I do feel it is healthy to practice mindful use. Perhaps set some rules: digital detox times, no-screen moments, no-data days. I don’t have a perfect solution, but I know we must do something.

This is an invitation: step outside, meet an imperfect friend, have tea, coffee, or a beer. Enjoy the journey. Care for each other. And let us talk… empathy.