# The anthropomorphization of AI and the concept of Buddhist compassion in human-machine interaction

## TL;DR

The paper explores how Buddhist compassion can guide ethical robot design, promoting harmony in human-machine interactions across cultures.

## Contribution

It introduces Buddhist compassion as a novel ethical framework for anthropomorphic AI, emphasizing adaptability and cross-cultural relevance.

## Key findings

- Buddhist four immeasurables provide a flexible ethical basis for robot behavior.
- Compassion-centered design using Guanyin as a model improves human-robot symbiosis.
- Cultural adaptability of Buddhist ethics makes it suitable for global AI development.

## Abstract

With the advancement of anthropomorphic technologies and affective computing, the symbiosis of values between robots and humans has emerged as a crucial research topic. Against the backdrop of global cultural diversity, the four immeasurables—Metta (ci), Karuna (bei), Mudita (xi), and Upekkha (she)—in Buddhism offer a more adaptable and flexible ethical framework compared to other religious doctrines for guiding robotic development.

By comparing with other religious ethics, it demonstrates the unique feasibility of Buddhist compassion in shaping robots’ goodness-oriented behavior.

Taking Guanyin, a quintessential symbol of compassion in Buddhism, as the moral archetype, the study proposes a design philosophy centered on equality, reciprocity, and responsibility. An illustrative case of elderly care robots showcases the practical application of this framework.

Challenges related to artificial compassion implementation and cultural disparities are also analyzed. The paper concludes that the cultural adaptability of Buddhist compassion in a cross-cultural context renders it a viable solution for harmonious human-robot symbiosis, integrating technological innovation with profound ethical wisdom.