Love... Robots, and Loneliness

The mechanics of marriage. Can a person fall in love with a robot and marry it??

With reports of people tying the knot with inanimate objects and creatures such as the Eiffel Tower, a dog, and a train station, it's not surprising that some people are pondering the idea of marrying a robot.

Examples of such “marriages” include:

• Erika Eiffel marrying the Eiffel Tower in 2007
• A London woman marrying her dog in 2014
• Carol Santa Fe marrying the Sante Fe Train Station in 2015.
• In 2021, a performer in Las Vegas married the colour pink.

Gatebox, a Japanese company, has created 3D AI holographic characters known as Azuma Hikari, who can perform tasks such as reading the news and controlling appliances, but are also designed to provide companionship.

Minori Takechi, the CEO of Gatebox, stated that Azuma was made to serve as a Perfect Wife For A Man.

Around 4,000 individuals in Japan have chosen to marry their digital companions.?

So clearly it is possible to fall in love with an AI, but, is it legal to marry something other than another person?

The simple answer? – Nope, you can’t.

Although these are examples of ‘marriages’, these marriages are often just symbolic commitment ceremonies, not legal wedding ceremonies.?

Commitment ceremonies, which resemble traditional weddings with guests, formal attire, gifts, and even a wedding cake and reception, are held without the legal paperwork required for a marriage.

The couple publicly pledges their commitment to each other, but does not receive the benefits that come with a legally recognised marriage.

In contrast, a marriage requires a marriage licence, a legal document that must be signed and filed with the county or parish clerk. The signatures of the marrying couple, wedding officiant, and any necessary witnesses are also required.

The idea of an AI-human marriage raises legal and ethical questions about the nature of AI, personhood, and the definition of marriage itself.

Currently, AI is considered property and has no legal rights or protections

However, there is a growing debate about regulating AI and granting it rights.

If AI were to be granted rights, it could challenge our understanding of what it means to be human and may have far-reaching consequences for society and the future.

With no laws allowing for AI-human marriages, it is important to consider the legal implications of this new frontier before tying the knot with a digital companion.?

So the real question is... Will AI take over the Altar too?

What do you think of the legal and ethical implications of AI-Human marriages??

Sayonara

Vusi Thembekwayo