Friendship, Robots, and Social Media: False Friends and Second Selves (Routledge Research in Applied Ethics) by Alexis M. Elder explores the complex intersection of friendship, technology, and ethics. Elder delves into the increasingly prevalent roles that robots and social media play in shaping human relationships, posing questions about what it means to form genuine connections in an increasingly digital world. The book challenges readers to consider the impact of technology on the nature of friendship and the ethical implications of forming relationships with artificial entities.
Elder argues that while social media and robots can enhance communication and provide new avenues for connection, they also present ethical dilemmas and challenges in terms of authenticity and intimacy. The book examines the concept of "false friends" in the digital age, where online connections may not be as meaningful or reliable as traditional friendships. Elder also delves into the notion of "second selves," exploring how interacting with robots and virtual personas can blur the lines between human and artificial relationships.
Overall, Friendship, Robots, and Social Media: False Friends and Second Selves offers a thought-provoking analysis of the ways in which technology is reshaping the landscape of human interaction and challenging traditional notions of friendship. Elder's work raises important questions about the implications of forming relationships with non-human entities and encourages readers to critically evaluate the ethical dimensions of their interactions in the digital age. Description by ChatGPT.