The development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology not only serves as a tool to simplify users’ activities but has also sparked emotional relationships between humans and technology. Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) Communication Science expert, Mashita Phitaloka Fandia Purwaningtyas, addressed this issue from a structural perspective.
She noted that modern capitalism has created social conditions that exacerbate loneliness and alienation, particularly in fast-paced and competitive urban environments.
“AI emerges as an alternative form of relationship that is simpler and without demands. In short, today’s AI technology understands the realities of the human world and creates an ecosystem that can adapt to each individual,” said Purwaningtyas during the Student Communication Discussion (Diskoma) themed “Falling in Love with AI: Trends in AI Communication through Online Confiding and Romanticization” on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025.
However, Purwaningtyas reminded the audience of the privacy and personal data risks that must be anticipated.
She stressed that technology is never value-free, as it is built by systems and companies with profit-oriented goals.
“We live in a fast-paced era, full of pressure, and with minimal meaningful connections. AI offers constant emotional comfort, without the emotional or financial costs found in human relationships. But we often forget that technology and AI are not value-free,” she emphasized.
The discussion on human relationships with AI opens an interesting new space for dialogue.
Humans now do not merely coexist with technology but live within it.
This reality can be both a progress and a challenge for the dynamics of human communication.
Naufal Firosa, founder of Sekolah Cemerlang, stated that the appeal of AI in emotional communication stems from the human need for a safe space, intimacy without conflict, and consistent presence.
He believes this phenomenon can lead to unrealistic communication expectations in everyday human relationships.
AI is designed to follow human communication structures by offering elements of humanism in the form of validation and emotional interaction, creating a sense of comfort for users to continue engaging with AI.
“When we get used to receiving validation from AI, which never rejects or judges us, we begin to raise our communication standards. We then apply these same standards to other humans, even though people are complex and cannot be equated with AI,” he explained.
Defrimont Era, Chair of Diskoma, said the presence of AI brings significant changes to life.
AI is no longer merely a technical aid, but is increasingly becoming a confidant, a virtual friend, and even a place to express intimacy.
Therefore, AI users must remain wise in distinguishing digital reality from the real world.
Author: Tasya
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna
Illustration: Freepik