ELIZA

Between 1964 and 1966, Joseph Weizenbaum, at the time Associate Professor at MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), developed "ELIZA – A Computer Program For the Study of Natural Language Communication Between Man and Machine". This program consisted of a formal language analyzer that allowed users to converse with it via keyboard. The question-and-answer style of the script simulated a psychotherapist, based on the person-centered therapy of psychotherapist Carl Rogers.

Weizenbaum's original intention with this program was to study the communication between humans and machines, show its superficiality, and demonstrate how easy it is to simulate understanding. To Weizenbaum's dismay, many participants engaged in serious conversations with ELIZA, confiding intimate and emotional details to the machine. Some participants not only developed a close relationship with ELIZA but also attributed empathy to the program. Even some practicing psychotherapists believed that the program could automate talk therapy.

Weizenbaum analyzed and criticized this uncritical enthusiasm for technology in his book "Computer Power and Human Reason" (1976). He became one of the most vocal critics of society's interaction with computers. He warned against the illusion of an "Artificial Intelligence" that could replace humans and the mythical elevation of computers to which people would willingly submit.

Although originally intended as a parody, ELIZA became known as the first chatbot in history and served as a precursor to Alexa, Siri, or ChatGPT. Thus, despite his critical stance, Weizenbaum came to be considered a pioneer in the field of Artificial Intelligence. The belief that computers possess human qualities because they seemingly communicate like humans is known today as the "ELIZA Effect."

Today, there are numerous computer programs for treating mental and psychological disorders. Their use remains controversial.