TOWARDS ARTIFICIAL INTIMACY: DISCUSSION ON THE NATURE OF LOVE IN THE POSTHUMANISTIC ERA

Abstract

As technology continues to advance and human identity becomes increasingly intertwined with non-human entities, the concept of love in the posthuman era has become a topic of significant interest. This paper explores the ways in which the changing landscape of technology and the blurring of boundaries between humans and machines have influenced our understanding and experience of love. Drawing on posthumanist theory, we argue that love in the posthuman era is not just a human emotion but a complex, entangled network of relationships between humans and machines (alleged „artificial intimacy“). We examine how artificial intelligence, robotics, and virtual reality reshape the boundaries of human love and intimacy, and discuss the implications of these developments for the future of human relationships. While technology can be used to enhance our connections with others, it also presents new challenges, risks, and opportunities for the nature of love. We conclude by calling for further interdisciplinary research on love in the posthuman era, as well as a nuanced and critically informed understanding of the role of technology in shaping our relationships with others.