In a chilling twist on the concept of digital immortality, Russian families are turning to artificial intelligence to 'resurrect' their loved ones who have been killed in the ongoing war in Ukraine. This controversial practice, which has gained traction on social media, raises ethical questions and sparks intense debate among those affected by the conflict.
The AI-generated videos and photos, often posted by relatives of fallen soldiers, portray the deceased as heroes defending their country. These clips, set to rousing orchestral music, depict soldiers returning home, embracing their families, and walking into a blue sky, sometimes surrounded by angels. While some grieving families find solace in these creations, others view them as a distortion of reality and a potential source of further trauma.
The psychological impact of these deepfakes is a concern for researchers. Katarzyna Nowaczyk-Basińska, a researcher at the Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence at the University of Cambridge, warns that the long-term effects on the grieving process are unknown. She notes the complexity and ethical challenges of assessing the impact of 'deadbots' and deepfakes, especially in a context where death and loss are prevalent.
The industry surrounding these AI-generated military-themed videos is thriving. Prices range from 200 roubles (£2) to 10,000 roubles (£100) in Russia, with some creators earning substantial profits. One such creator, Ulyana Lebed, who is married to a Russian serviceman, earns between 150,000-200,000 roubles (£1,500-£2,000) a month, a significant amount in a country where the average monthly wage is lower. However, this practice is not without controversy, with some viewing it as exploiting grief for financial gain.
The 'digital afterlife' industry, as Nowaczyk-Basińska calls it, is not limited to Russia. Posthumous avatars are already being used in various contexts, and the popularity of AI-generated content during wartime suggests a complex interplay between technology, grief, and cultural norms. While some find comfort in these virtual connections, others question the ethical boundaries and the potential for further emotional distress.
As the war in Ukraine continues, the use of AI to 'resurrect' the dead raises profound questions about the nature of mourning, the role of technology in grief, and the potential consequences of blurring the lines between reality and illusion.
