Mark Zuckerberg Says We Can Rely on AI for Emotional Support. That’s Dangerous.

Mark Zuckerberg recently suggested AI companions could help address the loneliness crisis by filling the gap for people who don’t have enough close friendships.In an interview with podcaster Dwarkesh Patel, the Meta CEO said the “average American” has fewer than three friends, but “demand” for connection is closer to 15. He argued AI could help meet that unmet social need, allowing humans to close the gap on loneliness with AI companions.But researchers are warning that the opposite may be true.