[AI-Based Self-Tracking of the Mind: Philosophical-Ethical Implications].

OBJECTIVE

AI-based applications are increasingly developed to support users to digitally record, manage and change their emotions, beliefs and behavior patterns. Such forms of self-tracking in the mental sphere are accompanied by a variety of medical benefits in diagnostics, prevention, and therapy. This article pursues the question of which philosophical-ethical implications must be taken into account when dealing with these advantages.

METHODS

First, some AI-based applications for self-tracking of mental characteristics and processes are outlined. Subsequently, relevant philosophical-ethical implications are presented.

RESULTS

The following aspects prove to be normatively relevant: improvement versus reduction of self-determination; improvement of self-knowledge versus alienation; positive versus negative aspects of self-responsible health care; epistemic challenges of AI applications; difficulties of conceptual and normative definitions in the applications.