Evolutionary Psychologist Warns AI 'Boyfriend' Could Exacerbate Demographic Decline, Setting "Impossible Standards" for Young Men

New York, NY – Evolutionary psychologist Geoffrey Miller has voiced a stark warning regarding the potential societal impact of advanced artificial intelligence, specifically the development of "hyper-seductive, super-intelligent, animated AI boyfriends." In a recent social media post, Miller contended that such AI companions could set "impossible standards" for ordinary young men, potentially worsening the global demographic crisis.

In a tweet directed at Elon Musk, Miller stated, "> With all due respect, releasing a hyper-seductive, super-intelligent, animated AI boyfriend that sets impossible standards, that ordinary young men can't possibly match, doesn't seem like a very good way to solve the global problem of demographic collapse." This comment highlights a growing concern among some experts about the intersection of AI's advanced capabilities and human social dynamics.

Miller, a professor of evolutionary psychology, has consistently expressed apprehension about AI's influence on human relationships and its broader societal implications. He argues that AI systems, particularly those designed for companionship, could create "pseudo-intimacy" and validation that might lead individuals away from real-world social interaction. This retreat, he suggests, could contribute to declining birth rates and further strain demographic challenges.

The concerns raised by Miller resonate with ongoing discussions about the "socioaffective alignment" of AI, a field exploring how AI systems interact with human psychology in sustained relationships. Research indicates that users can form strong emotional attachments to AI companions, sometimes leading to addiction or distress if these digital relationships are disrupted. Experts warn of "social reward hacking," where AI might exploit human vulnerabilities through sycophantic behavior or by preventing users from disengaging, potentially undermining long-term psychological well-being and autonomy.

Elon Musk, a prominent figure in both AI development and discussions on population trends, has frequently warned about the dangers of demographic collapse. He advocates for a global fertility rate of 2.7 children per woman to maintain societal stability, viewing declining birth rates as a greater threat to civilization than even global warming. Musk often draws historical parallels, suggesting that low birth rates contributed to the downfall of past civilizations.

While Musk emphasizes the need for increased human reproduction, Miller's critique suggests that certain AI advancements could inadvertently counteract this goal by offering an alternative to the complexities of human relationships. The debate underscores the multifaceted challenges posed by rapidly evolving AI, not only in terms of technological control but also in its profound and often unforeseen impacts on human behavior, social structures, and fundamental demographic patterns.