A philosophical study of the psychological and existential consequences of digital copies

In addition to the technical and philosophical challenges, the creation of digital copies of consciousness also entails profound psychological and existential consequences for both individuals who decide to create their digital copies and for society as a whole. In this article, we explore these consequences by analyzing the motivations, expectations, fears, and ethical dilemmas associated with the existence of digital doubles.The article examines the psychological impact on the creators of copies, including their motivations, expectations, potential disappointments, and the risks associated with over-identification with the digital copy. Confusion, anxiety, and existential stress arising from questions of identity, authenticity, and the meaning of life in the context of digital immortality are analyzed.Particular attention is paid to the consequences for relationships and social interactions, including the complexity of interacting with digital copies of the deceased, the problem of grief and farewell, and the ethical issues of using such copies. The impact of digital copies on social norms and institutions such as family, marriage, and law is examined, as well as their potential impact on the economy and politics.The article highlights the importance of philosophical and psychological analysis to understand and prepare for the potential consequences of creating digital copies of consciousness. It calls for further research into these issues and the development of ethical and social frameworks for the responsible use of this technology, ensuring a balance between technological progress and the preservation of human dignity and well-being.

Publication Details

Journal
Figshare
Published
2025-01-01
DOI
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.29560862
Primary Topic
Grief, Bereavement, and Mental Health
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
Controls
|||
ALL TIME
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
article

A philosophical study of the psychological and existential consequences of digital copies

Figshare
Grief, Bereavement, and Mental Health
article

A philosophical study of the psychological and existential consequences of digital copies

article en

Abstract

In addition to the technical and philosophical challenges, the creation of digital copies of consciousness also entails profound psychological and existential consequences for both individuals who decide to create their digital copies and for society as a whole. In this article, we explore these consequences by analyzing the motivations, expectations, fears, and ethical dilemmas associated with the existence of digital doubles.The article examines the psychological impact on the creators of copies, including their motivations, expectations, potential disappointments, and the risks associated with over-identification with the digital copy. Confusion, anxiety, and existential stress arising from questions of identity, authenticity, and the meaning of life in the context of digital immortality are analyzed.Particular attention is paid to the consequences for relationships and social interactions, including the complexity of interacting with digital copies of the deceased, the problem of grief and farewell, and the ethical issues of using such copies. The impact of digital copies on social norms and institutions such as family, marriage, and law is examined, as well as their potential impact on the economy and politics.The article highlights the importance of philosophical and psychological analysis to understand and prepare for the potential consequences of creating digital copies of consciousness. It calls for further research into these issues and the development of ethical and social frameworks for the responsible use of this technology, ensuring a balance between technological progress and the preservation of human dignity and well-being.

Figshare
Gender equality
Openalex Percentile: Top 42%
Grief, Bereavement, and Mental Health
AI Navigator

Ask Laika to Summarize, Analyze, and Connect papers live on the map.

Summarize Papers & Methodologies

Extract key findings, datasets, and comparative methods across publications.

Benchmark Rankings & Visual Analytics

Rank top research institutions, authors, funders, topics, and journals by Field-Weighted Citation Impact (FWCI) and paper volume with instant charts.

Connect Distant Disciplines

Bridge topological clusters on the map to find hidden collaborative intersections.