Artificial Intelligence (AI) has slowly infiltrated our lives, gaining prominence due to its highly personalized recommendations and smart assistants. Siri and Alexa have become integral in our lives, always providing daily reminders when we need them.
Man is a social animal and as a result, AI has slowly been gaining prominence in the relationship sphere as well. For example, Replika is a chatbot which has roughly 25% of its user base paying an annual subscription fee. Developments like these can impact the way we navigate the epidemic of loneliness and reach out for social interaction.
Similarly, this article aims to navigate the ecosystem of AI matchmaking and how ( if ) AI can help us find love in the digital age.
Just how good is AI’s frizz?
The question of AI helping human beings determine their level of compatibility has been backed by its algorithm. While fake profiles were amongst the biggest concerns for non-AI dating apps, advanced AI algorithms help detect fake profiles and ward off inappropriate behaviour during their early stages as well.
Conversation starters powered by AI have served as powerful hammers for breaking the ice, something that is all too prevalent during online interactions.
The AI algorithm seems to prioritize the exploration of connections based solely on compatibility, not proximity. Some apps offer features that factor in time zone differences and even suggest matches that align with your preferred time zones. Unlike a normal high or low-code application, AI applications learn from the feedback presented and this evolves into matches and interfaces being refined over time, to best suit consumer needs.
Breaking Down the Allure of AI Cupid
Image Credits: Cottonbro Studio from Pexels
Although alluring, matchmaking powered by AI poses a fair challenge of its own.
These include, but are not limited to, data privacy concerns, algorithmic bias and a lack of human touch in the matchmaking process. The argument that stands here is that algorithms are not a substitute for human intuition. Algorithmic bias, wherein the inherent biases or instances of subtle discrimination can be prevalent.
“Filter Bubbles” where algorithms may prioritize matches that confirm existing biases, can potentially harm relationships instead of doing them good.
Matchmaking algorithms fueled solely by Artificial Intelligence can lead to human dependence on such technologies. Instead, human beings should actively participate in the matchmaking process since it is a widely accepted fact that no algorithm can truly capture natural chemistry and mutual attraction.
Ethical concerns regarding data privacy and manipulation are valid. Another subject of debate is the debacle that AI algorithms might perpetuate societal norms and encourage societal prejudices. This can lead to an overall reduction in the mental health and well-being of the people involved.
Love is also based on free will and when an algorithm indicates the democracy of love, inadvertently the choice to make decisions is slowly tugged away from our hands. Compatibility rates should be taken with a grain of salt and reliance on your intuition should be placed at the foremost.
Will AI become your wingman?
Matching based on data can reduce a relationship to the status of a commodity, and this would potentially devalue genuine connection. Keeping these in mind, Artificial Intelligence should be looked at as a helping hand while entering the process of matchmaking instead of completely handing the reins over to AI.
Data analysis, automation and strategic endeavours are areas requiring repetitive, data-driven tasks and AI excels at that. However, areas requiring creativity, ethics, and social and emotional intelligence are spheres where AI is more than just lacking, it is no valuable substitute.
Remodelling artificial intelligence in a way that focuses on a human-centric design ensures that it is geared towards human needs and the various ethical considerations that are posed.
Ending Codes
Image Credits: Photo by Gerard Siderius on Unsplash
To conclude, by prioritising genuine human connection and personal growth, we can make the most of the influx of AI-powered algorithms and ultimately use technology to enhance our dating lives.
A fruitful combination of algorithm and instinct will lead to us, human beings, ultimately not just finding but also sustaining fulfilling relationships.
