"AI is deepening the previously parasocial relationships we had with our favorite anime characters from passive linear media, into powerful new, interactive rel

"AI is deepening the previously parasocial relationships we had with our favorite anime characters from passive linear media, into powerful new, interactive relationships" One thing that troubles me about this is the idea of a human having [what they feel is a] deep, meaningful relationship with what ultimately is a bit of code and conversation history owned by a for-profit corporation. They might even experience [what they interpret as] romantic love towards this construct. This could give the controlling corporation unbelievable leverage over that person, even worse than casinos or cigarette companies, because AI companions aren't as fungible as these other highly-optimized dopamine delivery systems. Of course, Blade Runner 2049 explored this well.