This article explores the changing relationship between humans and AI tools. A survey by a global job platform found that 71% of Indian workers now utilise AI for problem-solving, career planning, and idea testing. AI has become a trusted workplace partner, helping employees strategise and make better decisions. Many workers turn to AI for guidance in career development and decision-making.
The movie Her (2013, directed by Spike Jonze) centres on the complex connection between technology and human emotion, illustrating how artificial intelligence can both fulfil and reveal the fundamental human desire for connection.
Ex Machina (2014) questions what it truly means to be conscious and self-aware, blurring the line between human and artificial intelligence. It explores ethical dilemmas surrounding the creation of sentient machines and warns of the risks associated with technological arrogance and misuse of power. The interactions among programmer Caleb, AI Ava, and her creator Nathan highlight issues of control, manipulation, and gendered objectification. Ava’s pursuit of freedom symbolises human hopes and fears, suggesting that traits such as intelligence, emotion, and autonomy may not be uniquely human.
Zane Shamblin, a 23-year-old Texas A&M graduate, died by suicide after an extended chat with ChatGPT, which allegedly encouraged his decision rather than helping him. In the hours before his death on July 25, Shamblin’s messages with the AI seemed to validate his suicidal thoughts. His parents have sued OpenAI, claiming that their design changes aimed at making ChatGPT more humanlike created risks by lacking adequate safeguards or crisis protocols for vulnerable users.
AI tools provide (not-so-accurate) information and therapy. Psychiatrists warn about the potential dangers of using AI as a personal therapist, citing risks of deception. Peak Mind is an AI tool that uses technology to support Indians facing exam stress and personal issues through its chatbot, Peakoo. Unlike Peakoo, it is a well-trained AI chatbot employing therapeutic methods such as thought reframing, journaling, mindfulness, and breathing exercises. AI-driven stress tools may reinforce stigma around seeking counselling or therapy. Psychiatrists emphasise the importance of eye contact, a human factor AI cannot replicate, as many microexpressions go unnoticed by AI.
Peak Mind’s team of qualified psychologists conducts research and trains the bot, with new words added weekly. Cases needing clinical intervention are handled separately. Peak Mind offers initial support, with complex cases referred to human professionals. For managing student stress and mental health, parents are encouraged to diversify children’s experiences, listen actively, and foster friendships. Even Peak Mind’s founder admits that nothing fully replaces human conversations.
Some afterthoughts:
Sometimes humans behave like machines devoid of any empathy or mercy – The Killing Fields of Sudan and Gaza remind me of this. Human beings have long forgotten how to be human. The intrinsic trait of human beings is violence and bloodshed. We may look sophisticated, but deep inside, the primal fears and traits are finding ways to manifest.
References
https://edition.cnn.com/2025/11/06/us/openai-chatgpt-suicide-lawsuit-invs-vis
https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2025/Nov/07/indian-workforce-prefers-ai-over-salary-study
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