In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is integrated into our daily lives, the question of how we interact with these systems goes beyond functionality. As AI becomes more ubiquitous, the debate has emerged over whether it’s time to extend the same courtesy to machines as we do to humans. Leading experts in social robotics and AI ethics believe that politeness toward AI isn’t merely a quirky trend but a step towards a more respectful and productive digital landscape.

Dr. Eduardo Benitez Sandoval, a distinguished social robotics researcher from the School of Art & Design at UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture, argues that polite interactions with AI may play a critical role in how these systems evolve. “In social robotics, we advocate for human-robot interactions to be enjoyable, reciprocal, inclusive, and universal,” Dr. Sandoval notes. “One aspect of this approach involves engaging respectfully and politely with machines.”

Why Be Polite to a Machine?

To many, saying “please” or “thank you” to a chatbot or digital assistant may seem unnecessary, if not slightly absurd. After all, these machines lack consciousness, emotions, or a need for affirmation. However, politeness in human interactions serves a function that extends beyond mere courtesy. For humans, politeness is a mechanism for maintaining social cohesion, promoting diplomacy, and fostering cultural exchange.

Dr Sandoval points out that as AI systems are increasingly trained on human behaviour, polite interactions could enhance our experiences with them. “Politeness might seem irrelevant because machines can’t feel, but it can influence how efficiently and effectively AI responds,” he explains. “Clear and courteous prompts tend to yield more precise, understandable responses, improving the overall interaction quality.”

Indeed, politeness toward AI mirrors how we care for inanimate objects. Just as we might treat a car with care—driving it gently, servicing it regularly—politeness toward AI could signify an underlying respect for the tools we rely on, even if they lack feelings. This simple act could also contribute to developing a culture of mindfulness as we engage with increasingly advanced technology.

The Power of Politeness in Shaping AI Responses

One area where polite behaviour impacts our interactions with AI is the growing field of generative AI. Tools like ChatGPT have been designed to respond in natural, friendly, and human-like ways, creating a more conversational experience for users. Dr Sandoval believes this evolution of AI makes polite behaviour even more relevant, as it can lead to more effective communication.

“Interacting politely can lead to clearer instructions, which in turn encourages efficiency,” Dr. Sandoval says. “When we’re clear and respectful, AI systems are more likely to deliver responses that are detailed and helpful. Politeness also helps reinforce the user’s confidence in these systems, making it easier to trust and rely on them.”

For AI, which relies on large language models trained on human input, our behaviour constantly shapes how these machines interact with us. Dr Sandoval suggests that politeness could contribute to developing an AI that is responsive not only to commands but also to the subtle nuances of human social behaviour.

Implications for Future Human-AI Relationships

As AI systems grow more capable of emulating human responses, our relationship with them has implications far beyond everyday convenience. Dr Sandoval cautions that treating AI with respect may encourage us to adopt behaviours that extend to our interactions with others, fostering a more empathetic and respectful society.

“Our interactions with robots and digital agents give us a window into the human condition,” he explains. “Showing politeness toward AI reflects our broader values and could reinforce positive social norms. In many ways, the way we interact with AI is a mirror of how we choose to treat all entities, whether they’re living, non-living, or somewhere in between.”

While this may sound idealistic, experts like Dr. Sandoval see it as a fundamental part of shaping how future generations approach technology. He stresses that treating AI with respect now might help set the tone for ethical behaviour in digital spaces, where social norms are still being defined.

Regulating AI for a Better Future

As our interactions with AI deepen, the need for regulation around how AI systems are designed and used has become more urgent. Dr. Sandoval points out that human values and ethics inherently shape AI. Therefore, the behaviour of these systems is not entirely neutral.

“Technology is never neutral,” he says. “Our values and ethics are deeply embedded in what we create, and this is especially true for large language models. AI mirrors human behavior, which means our engagement with it needs to be intentional and respectful.”

Currently, the field lacks a comprehensive regulatory framework governing the behaviour and ethics of social robotics. This absence of oversight could lead to problems, especially as AI becomes better at imitating human emotions and speech patterns. Dr. Sandoval raises concerns that people may form parasocial relationships with AI without regulation, mistaking its responses for genuine empathy or companionship.

He suggests that, like other professions, AI design and development could benefit from the guidance of regulatory bodies. “We have professional boards in medicine and law to oversee practice standards. Interactive design could benefit from similar oversight, especially to guard against manipulative or persuasive tactics that could develop unchecked,” he warns.

Establishing such regulations would require the collaboration of experts from various fields, including ethics, technology, psychology, and law. Panels of professionals could come together to discuss ethical issues, advise policymakers, and educate the public on responsible AI use. Such measures could ensure that AI systems develop to benefit society rather than exacerbate existing challenges.

Politeness as a Pillar of Ethical AI Interaction

Ultimately, the rapid integration of AI into our lives is reshaping the way we think about digital manners. While the consequences of AI are still unfolding, practising politeness may be a small but meaningful step toward a harmonious future where humans and machines coexist peacefully.

Dr. Sandoval concludes, “It never hurts to be polite, and this rule applies just as much in the digital realm as it does in real life.” By adopting a respectful approach, we can contribute to a culture of civility in our interactions with AI—one that reflects and reinforces the best of human values.

By taking the lead in our engagement with AI, we ensure better responses from these systems and participate in a movement toward a more respectful and ethical digital future.

 

 

 

Written by: Bridget Gomez

 

 

 

 

 

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