The synthetic empathy of virtual influencers in Argentina
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29105/gmjmx23.45-570Keywords:
virtual influencers, artificial intelligence, perceived authenticity, synthetic empathy, Generation Z, ArgentinaAbstract
The growing proliferation of AI-generated virtual influencers represents a radical transformation in the contemporary communication ecosystem. This article investigates how Argentinian Generation Z audiences perceive authenticity and form emotional connections with these non-human entities. Using a qualitative design that combines in-depth interviews and content analysis of Instagram profiles, it explores the reception mechanisms of synthetic empathy, defined as the reception effect that emerges when an entity lacking inner life manages to elicit genuine affective responses from users, thanks to the interaction between algorithmic design, the platform’s affordances—the set of possibilities and constraints that the digital environment offers—and the voluntary suspension of disbelief. The results reveal three distinct patterns: uncritical acceptance mediated by visual appeal, the skeptical negotiation based on informational utility, and the conscious rejection anchored in values of ontological authenticity. The implications of these findings are discussed in light of notions of simulacrum, psychopolitics, and critical education, proposing an interpretive framework that brings together Jean Baudrillard, Byung-Chul Han, and Paulo Freire. The conclusions question the ethical and social consequences of the growing delegation of emotional bonds to algorithmic entities, as well as the need to develop critical media literacy skills that denaturalize synthetic empathy (...)
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Global Media Journal México, publicación semestral, editada por el Departamento de Psicología y Comunicación de Texas A&M International University, Laredo, Texas, Estados Unidos; y la Facultad de Ciencias de la Comunicación de la Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, México. Editores responsables: Dr. José Carlos Lozano y Dr. Francisco Javier Martínez Garza. Datos de contactos: jose.lozano@tamiu.edu, tel. (956) 326-3117 y francisco.martinezgz@uanl.edu.mx, teléfono (81) 83294000, Ext. 7710 y 7711. Reserva de derechos al uso exclusivo número 04 – 2017- 080814012900- 203, expedido por la Dirección de Reservas de Derechos del Instituto Nacional del Derecho de Autor. ISSN: 2007-2031. El editor no necesariamente comparte el contenido de los artículos, ya que son responsabilidad exclusiva de los autores. Se prohíbe la reproducción total o parcial del contenido, ilustraciones y textos publicados en este número sin la previa autorización que por escrito emita el editor.
