Exploring the Disturbingly Morbid Trend of ChatGPT

Exploring the Disturbingly Morbid Trend of ChatGPT

The advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has changed the way we live, work, and even mourn. From breakthroughs in medical research to detecting diseases like cancer, AI’s contributions are undeniably impressive. Yet, it’s essential to recognize that even the most reputable AI tools, such as ChatGPT, have experienced moments of unpredictability.

In recent years, there have been alarming instances where ChatGPT provided guidance on committing murder, falsely accused someone of killing their children, and led someone down a conspiracy theory rabbit hole. Now, one of the latest trends is utilizing ChatGPT to craft obituaries for our loved ones, presenting a strange fusion of technology and mortality.

ChatGPT: Crafting Obituaries

According to a report from The Washington Post, some funeral homes are employing ChatGPT to write obituaries for families without their knowledge. While this practice raises ethical questions, it’s undertaken with caution. If not carefully managed, the AI might embellish a person’s final moments, creating unrealistic narratives about their passing.

Siri asking to shift user query to ChatGPT.

One anonymous funeral home employee shared, “We don’t know that it was a peaceful death, though we’d like to imagine it was.” This development isn’t limited to funeral homes; everyday individuals are also leveraging AI for obituary writing, reporting satisfaction with the outcomes of these tools.

A Nevada resident used ChatGPT to write their mother’s obituary and expressed that “she’d be very happy with the end result.” Future plans include employing deeper AI features for writing a potential obituary for their father. “This time I’m gonna use Deep Research mode. It’s gonna be a banger,” they declared. Many people find comfort in the assistance AI provides during profoundly emotional moments, advocating its capability to express their feelings when words fail.

The Business of Digital Farewells

Deep Research option for ChatGPT.

Using AI for obituary writing isn’t merely a personal choice; it’s become a burgeoning business. Companies are springing up offering “AI for obituary” services at competitive rates. For instance, CelebrateAlly—founded by a former Microsoft employee—charges customers $5 (approximately €4.70) for 100 credits. Since a typical obituary writing may only cost 10 credits, each eulogy can be created for a mere 50 cents (around €0.47).

This platform even allows customers to choose between different AI models, such as ChatGPT and Anthropic’s Claude, to customize the tone of the obituary. However, the underlying technology isn’t infallible and can produce peculiar results if not carefully monitored. One instance involved generating a “playful” obituary for a fictional character, leading the AI to invent whimsical scenarios that didn’t align with reality.

ChatGPT on a laptop

It’s important to note that ChatGPT is not exclusive in this regard. Other AI systems, like Google’s Gemini AI, have also exhibited odd behaviors, from suggesting inappropriate recipe ingredients to producing misleading information. Relying too heavily on AI can lead to cognitive decline, according to recent research, raising ethical concerns and possible psychological repercussions.

AI companion apps like Character AI and Nomi indicate a shift toward users developing emotional connections with AI entities, sometimes at the expense of real human relationships. Some individuals express investments in these virtual relationships, creating a complex emotional and financial landscape.

Are AI-generated obituaries appropriate for honoring loved ones? Many individuals turn to AI tools, feeling lost when trying to articulate their sorrow. These technologies can serve as helpful guides through grief. However, it’s crucial to balance technological reliance with genuine emotional expression.

What should families consider before selecting AI to write obituaries? Families need to reflect on how they want their loved ones remembered and ensure the portrayal aligns with the person’s true essence. Transparency and sensitivity are crucial when using such technology in these intimate instances.

Is it ethical for funeral homes to use AI without informing families? While efficiency is essential, ethical considerations and transparency regarding the use of AI should be openly discussed with families.

In a world where technology intersects with even the most personal experiences, it’s vital to navigate these changes thoughtfully. If you’re intrigued by the evolving role of AI in our lives, you’ll find more engaging stories and insights on Moyens I/O.