Sci-Fi and AI: Exploring Annie Bot with Sierra Greer

In this episode of the Behavioral Design Podcast, hosts Aline and Samuel dive into the ethical, emotional, and societal complexities of AI companionship with special guest Sierra Greer, author of Annie Bot. This thought-provoking novel explores AI-human relationships, autonomy, and the blurred line between artificial intelligence and the human experience.

Sierra shares her inspiration for Annie Bot and how sci-fi can serve as a lens to explore real-world ethical dilemmas in AI development.

• The conversation covers the concept of reinforcement learning in AI and how it mirrors human conditioning
• The gender dynamics embedded in AI design, and the ethical implications of AI companions.
• The discussion also examines real-life cases of people forming deep emotional bonds with AI chatbots

The episode rounds out with a lively quickfire round, where Sierra debates whether AI should replace lost loved ones, act as conversational assistants for introverts, or intervene in human arguments.

This is a must-listen for fans of sci-fi, behavioral science, and those fascinated by the future of AI companionship and emotional intelligence.

LINKS:

• Sierra Greer website
• Annie Bot – Official Book Page
• Goodreads Profile

TIMESTAMPS:

01:43 AI Companions: A Controversial Opinion

05:48 Exploring Sci-Fi and AI in Literature

07:42 Introducing Sierra Greer and Her Book

09:12 Reinforcement Learning Explained

15:47 Diving into the World of Annie Bot

23:17 Power Dynamics and Human-Robot Relationships

32:31 Humanity and Artificial Intelligence

41:31 Autonomy vs. Agreeableness in Relationships

43:20 Reinforcement Learning in AI and Humans

46:13 Ethics and Gaslighting in AI

48:57 Gender Dynamics in AI Design

57:18 AI Companions and Human Relationships

01:06:45 Quickfire Round: To AI or Not to AI

01:12:39 Final Thoughts and Controversial Opinions

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