The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) raises significant questions not only about technological advancements but also about morality, ethics, and our very identities. "AI Morality" (Oxford University Press, 2024), edited by philosopher David Edmonds, features essays from experts examining how AI will transform our lives and the ethical dilemmas it creates. In her contribution, Muriel Leuenberger, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Zurich, discusses the influence of AI on personal identity in her essay, "Should You Let AI Tell You Who You Are and What You Should Do?" Leuenberger highlights the ability of machine learning algorithms used across various digital platforms to form a comprehensive profile of users, knowing more about their preferences and behaviors than they might know themselves. This raises concerns about whether users can trust AI to make recommendations about their lives, as the complexity of AI systems makes it difficult to assess their reliability. Factors like bias in algorithms and the lack of transparency complicate understanding the motivations behind AI’s recommendations. Beyond trust issues, the essay emphasizes a deeper philosophical concern: the notion of identity as something to be discovered versus something to be created.

AI may provide insights based on data and statistics, but it can overshadow the essential human capacity to actively shape one’s identity. Drawing from existentialist thought, Leuenberger argues that identity should be a product of personal agency and responsibility, not an outcome dictated by AI. Relying on AI for self-definition could lead to a diminished sense of responsibility and creativity in constructing one's identity. While the appeal of having clear guidance is understandable, it comes with risks, including losing critical self-creation skills and the potential for AI to reinforce a static identity. To foster personal growth, individuals should engage more actively in decision-making, rather than depend on AI recommendations, thereby ensuring that they remain accountable for their lives and identities.