Artificial intelligence in Bremen: Does it really serve people?

Artificial intelligence in Bremen: Does it really serve people?

In the modern world of digital innovation, it seems as if we are constantly being stalked by news coverage of artificial intelligence (AI). At least that's how an author from the Weser-Kurier describes it, who looks at the current development with increasing skepticism. Especially in the area of ​​communication, he experiences how empathy works between people, but not between machines. This raises questions: How far can AI go in understanding and responding to human emotions?

A vivid example comes from the everyday life of a citizen of Bremen who had to wait nine months for his yellow bin to be delivered. Meanwhile, the author received an email from his auto repair shop's AI informing him that he needed an oil change. But in another attempt to make an appointment via landline phone with an AI called “Alex”, he only experienced misunderstandings. Ultimately, only calling back a real person could lead to a solution. This anecdote highlights a key problem: the lack of human connection and understanding in AI interactions.

The challenge of artificial empathy

But what is artificial empathy (KE) actually? A technology that gives machines the ability to recognize and respond to human emotions. Also known as “affective AI,” it aims to revolutionize human-machine interaction. Application examples such as empathetic chatbots in customer service or virtual assistants in healthcare demonstrate the potential of KE. But here's the problem: Human empathy is based on real feelings, while KE can only simulate emotions. This brings us to the question: Can we really expect any real help?

A study by “Nature Machine Intelligence” shows interesting approaches. Computer science professor Tim Althoff from the University of Washington looked at the question of whether AI can help people express empathy more effectively. A group of participants received support from an AI model that was trained to generate more empathetic responses. But while the responses were rated as more empathetic, those seeking help did not find it as effective once they learned an AI was involved. These results suggest that human contact remains irreplaceable and that AI should not replace interpersonal relationships, but should at best support them.

Technological limitations and social concerns

So artificial empathy is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, emotional signals can be decoded using complex algorithms, but on the other hand, questions about trust and authenticity remain unanswered. Psychiatrist Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg highlights the possible supportive role of AI in peer support offerings, but emphasizes the need for real human connections. Because KE cannot achieve the depth of real relationships because it has no intrinsic motivation and its adaptability is limited.

Looking at the future of garbage collection in Bremen, which is expected to become more expensive in 2026, it is also clear here that although technological advances are finding their way into many areas of life, interpersonal relationships still remain crucial. The development and use of KE should therefore be carried out responsibly to ensure user acceptance and trust.

Overall, it shows that while AI and its empathetic approaches are promising, they cannot replace authentic human relationships. The discussion about the correct use of these technologies will continue to accompany us in the future.

The Weser-Kurier, Deutschlandfunk and Xpert.digital provide valuable insights into the world of AI and human communication and encourage you to think about the possibilities and limits of these technologies.