Bluebeard's Keys: Curiosity, AI and the Digital Unknown

Leigh Money will explore how our relationship to ‘what can be known’ is changing with access to online search, AI, community information networks, and other digital tools. In particular, how these resources curtail our ability, willingness, or desire to stay with the ‘not-yet-known’ or keep an open, curious attitude. While this has implications for us all collectively, it also has a particular impact on the practice of psychotherapy.

Leigh will explore some of the hidden designs and dangers wrapped up in searching for information and answers online – both for therapist and patient. She will also look at the role of curiosity and the importance of ‘living the questions’ rather than seeking immediate satisfaction. She will include clinical material that brings some of these challenges to life.

As a ‘cautionary tale’ for the curious, Bluebeard offers multiple readings that may enrich and amplify our understanding of these contemporary developments. Just as the young bride is given the keys to every room in Bluebeard’s castle, our phones and computers may act as keys to all sorts of rooms, rooms that contain both treasures and horrors.