Good Disruption: Episode 17 - AI Companions

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines companion as “one that accompanies another” and “one that keeps company with another”.  From physical training and therapy to friendships and personal assistance, people are increasingly looking to AI companions for support.

Still, there is something missing. These AI companions are designed to support the individual but what is the impact on broader society? Don’t we as humans get something out of supporting each other?

Mike and Yael talk with Allison Pugh, author of The Last Human Job: The Work of Connecting in a Disconnected World, whose research suggests that people working in more empathetic jobs find purpose in motivating others and that two-way human connection creates social trust and feelings of belonging not easily replaced by AI. 

Allison Pugh is a Professor of Sociology at Johns Hopkins University and the 2024-25 Vice President of the American Sociological Association. At the time of this recording, Allison was a Professor of Sociology and Chair of the Department of Women, Gender and Sexuality at the University of Virginia.