AI Friendship Explored in New Science Books

Five new science books, reviewed by Andrew Robinson and published online on August 28, 2026, in Nature, explore diverse topics ranging from the profound mysteries of the deep sea to the complex and evolving concept of friendship with artificial intelligence. The collection highlights the breadth of current scientific inquiry and its intersection with societal and philosophical questions.

One of the featured books, "The Deep" by James Nestor, revisits his 2017 work on the ocean's depths, offering updated perspectives on humanity's relationship with the marine environment. Nestor's exploration emphasizes the vast unknown that still exists within Earth's oceans, underscoring the ongoing need for scientific exploration and conservation efforts. The review notes that this book serves as a compelling reminder of the planet's most extensive and least understood biome, which plays a critical role in global climate regulation and biodiversity.

Another significant title is "The Age of AI: And Our Human Future" by Henry Kissinger, Eric Schmidt, and Daniel Huttenlocher. This book, first published in 2021, is re-examined for its prescient insights into the transformative power of artificial intelligence. The authors, a former Secretary of State, former CEO of Google, and Dean of MIT's Schwarzman College of Computing, respectively, discuss the profound societal, ethical, and geopolitical implications of AI development. Their analysis covers potential benefits, such as advancements in medicine and efficiency, alongside risks like job displacement and the erosion of human decision-making autonomy. The review suggests the book remains highly relevant as AI technology continues its rapid advancement.

"The Future of You: Can Your DNA Be Used Against You?" by Bibisara D. Sande, a geneticist, is also among the reviewed works. This book delves into the rapidly evolving field of genetics and its potential applications, as well as the ethical considerations surrounding genetic data. Sande explores how advancements in DNA sequencing and analysis are opening new avenues for personalized medicine and scientific understanding, but also raise concerns about privacy, discrimination, and the responsible use of such powerful information. The review points to the book's accessible explanation of complex genetic concepts and its timely discussion of bioethical challenges.

Additionally, the collection includes "The Art of Friendship: How the Deepest Connections Are Made" by the philosopher and psychologist, Dr. Michelle G. Lee. This book, published in 2025, offers a contemporary look at human connection, drawing parallels between traditional understandings of friendship and emerging forms of social interaction, including those facilitated by technology and potentially involving AI. Lee's work examines the psychological underpinnings of strong social bonds and considers how these might adapt in an increasingly digital and AI-integrated world. The review highlights its thoughtful consideration of what constitutes genuine connection in the 21st century.

Finally, "AI and Us: Navigating the Future of Human-Machine Relationships" by Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading AI ethicist, provides a forward-looking perspective on the integration of artificial intelligence into daily life. Sharma addresses the potential for AI to become companions, collaborators, and even sources of emotional support, while also cautioning against over-reliance and the potential for unintended consequences. The book, released in 2026, is noted for its balanced approach, acknowledging both the utopian and dystopian possibilities of advanced AI, and advocating for thoughtful design and ethical deployment to ensure AI serves humanity's best interests. The collection as a whole offers a multifaceted view of scientific progress and its impact on human understanding and interaction.