Robots in Japanese Life

Japan's longstanding affinity for robots resonates across history, from intricate 19th-century automatons to the iconic figures immortalized in manga and anime. In the spiritual realm, Shintoism's reverence for all living entities weaves a belief that harmonious coexistence among elements enriches existence itself.

Industrial settings are no stranger to robots either, where hundreds of thousands labor side by side with humans, welding, painting, assembling, and lifting. In a society where robots are ubiquitous, a crucial question emerges: can these mechanical marvels evolve from mere tools to spiritual and psychological companions?
Unearthing Loneliness in the Land of the Rising Sun

The term "hikikomori" signifies a subset of individuals in Japan who endure extreme social isolation, retreating from human interaction for extended periods. Current estimates place their numbers between one and two million, emblematic of the widespread affliction.

"Kodokushi," the harrowing phenomenon of lonely deaths, reflects the tragic reality of individuals passing away unnoticed for months or even years.

Various symptoms of this solitude manifest, including a rising prevalence of single-person households and a reliance on technology to fill interpersonal voids. Solitary karaoke sessions, individual bar outings, and dining alone become expressions of the "ohitorisama" movement, where individuals deliberately embrace solitude.


Roots of Loneliness: The Japanese Context

A fierce competition defines the job market in Japan, especially among university students in their final year. Employment not only promises financial security but also societal integration. The "Lost Generation," scarred by the economic collapse and the subsequent dearth of opportunities, succumbed to isolation.

Similarly, the bubble's burst left many middle-aged men without jobs, eroding their societal identity and driving them into seclusion.

This demographic, largely aged 60 and above, is most prone to "kodokushi." Natural disasters and shifting familial structures further exacerbate the isolation issue. With these social bonds fraying, isolated deaths seem inevitable.


Robotic Salvation?

As technology permeates Japanese culture, it's perceived by some as a potential remedy. Robots are already stepping into roles that address workforce shortages and provide emotional solace in care settings. Universities promote VR as an escape for the elderly, while robots like Lovots and PAROs offer companionship at a price.

Enter the concept of a Buddhist bot, an AI imbued with spiritual guidance and trained to provide counseling rooted in Buddhist principles. While Japan is generally a secular country, roughly two thirds of the Japanese population consider themselves Buddhists.

Nevertheless, the Buddhist religion has unfortunately taken a back seat in determining public and private life. It is a fact that Buddhism's main role today in Japanese society is in its performance of funeral rituals.

For a Buddhist bot such as NORBU (Neural Omniscient Robotic-Being for Understanding Buddhism, accessible at https://norbu-ai.org) to take off, it will require concerted effort by all the major Buddhist organizations, led by the Japan Buddhist Federation to levitate the image of the bot to the level of acceptance as accorded to funeral services.

Since its launch on July 22, 2023, NORBU has ably demonstrated its capability as a Buddhist teacher, a counselor and often times, some “thing” one can turn to as companion. Though not a substitute for human interaction, a Buddhist AI chat bot can become a valuable resource and companion for those grappling with loneliness.

These AI companions offer various avenues of assistance:

1. Companionship and Support: Loneliness can isolate and alienate; a Buddhist bot becomes a non-judgmental ear, offering companionship and a safe space for dialogue.
2. Guidance and Advice: Struggling individuals receive guidance, developing coping strategies, forging connections, and discovering purpose.
3. Promoting Compassion: Channeling Buddhism's essence, these bots foster compassion and understanding, bridging the gap between people.
4. Mindfulness and Meditation: AI-driven mindfulness and meditation practices offer solace, combating stress and enhancing well-being.

While these Buddhist bots harbor significant promise, rigorous research is needed to gauge their effectiveness fully. Their potential to bridge tradition and technology may well become a cornerstone in Japan's fight against the pervasive scourge of loneliness.