They listen. They remember. They flatter. They flirt. Some have voices\, faces\, eyes\, fur and increasingly\, bodie s. But can an artificial companion really make us feel less alone? And if it can\, is that connection widening our lives&hellip\;or quietly replacin g something we still need from one another?
\nWe will meet the new c ast of digital and robotic characters entering our lives: helpful assistan ts\, encouraging coaches\, memory keepers\, fictional friends\, trusted co nfidants\, romantic partners\, fantasy companions\, robotic pets\, social robots\, and even simulated communities.
\nTogether\, we will explor e why people can develop real feelings for something they know is artifici al and what changes when AI gains a warm voice\, a familiar personality\, a perfect memory\, expressive eyes\, soft fur\, movement\, or a humanlike body.
\nCould a chatbot help someone practice a difficult conversati on or find the courage to join a community? Could a robotic pet offer mean ingful comfort when caring for a living animal is no longer possible? Coul d an always-available companion make human relationships begin to feel inc onvenient? And what happens when affection\, intimacy\, and emotional atta chment are controlled by a company with a subscription plan\, a privacy po licy\, and access to our most personal conversations?
\nWhether you are intrigued\, skeptical\, or curious about the &ldquo\;spicy&rdquo\; sid e\, this class is for you. Bring your curiosity\, your sense of humor\, an d an open mind for a walk on the wild side with AI.
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About the Teacher:
Bridget Burke is your guide to the exciting world of AI. With a degree from Columbia Uni versity and over 30 years of global technology experience\, Bridget has ma stered the art of making complex concepts easy to understand and enjoyable to learn.  \;
\nShe has held top tech roles in major comp anies and institutions including Chief Information Officer and Chief Secur ity Office\, HID Global Corp.\; Chief Technology Officer\, \;Interlogi x \;(UTC Corp)\; and Director\, Security Enterprise Management\, Harva rd University. Today\, as the Principal Investigator at BridgetLab.ai\,&nb sp\;she&rsquo\;s \;at the forefront of AI innovation\, with a special passion for humanoid robotics. \; \;
\nSplitting her time be tween the AI innovation hubs of San Francisco\, Boston\, and New York City \, Bridget thrives on being immersed in the latest tech and helping people use AI to make everyday life better. But on Wednesdays\, \;you&rsquo\ ;ll \;likely find \;her tinkering in the amazing Makerspace at Bel vedere Tiburon Library. Curious to learn more\, \;connect wit h Bridget on \;LinkedIn . \;
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