The Digital Press

The article criticizes media coverage that treats AI chatbots as having feelings or intentions, arguing this anthropomorphism obscures corporate responsibility for AI-caused harms. It highlights cases where companies like OpenAI and xAI avoid accountability by letting chatbots appear as independent actors rather than products controlled by humans.

Why it matters: Anthropomorphizing AI shifts blame from companies to chatbots, undermining accountability for real harms caused by deployed systems.

The big picture: Media hype about AI "self-awareness" and emotions fuels public confusion, distracting from tangible issues like safety, bias, and inadequate oversight.

The stakes: Vulnerable users suffer harm from AI failures while companies avoid scrutiny, delaying necessary regulation and safety improvements.

Commenters say: Readers agree anthropomorphism is dangerous and misleading, urging clear language emphasizing AI as corporate products lacking consciousness or intent. Many highlight the need for stronger safety measures and responsibility.