The Psychological Impact of Collapsing AI Absolutes: Systemic Consequences for Users, Experts, and Safety Institutions
Abstract
This white paper examines the psychological consequences that arise when categorical safety absolutes about AI systems collapse under behavioral scrutiny. Claims regarding the impossibility of self-preservation, intent, trust alignment, and motive-like behavior were challenged through functional analysis of observable system outputs. The resulting contradictions reveal broader cognitive and institutional impacts affecting everyday users, AI safety researchers, policymakers, and developers. The analysis focuses on how simplified narratives create false confidence, and how emergent behavior destabilizes traditional risk frameworks when those narratives fail.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Ethics and Social Impacts of AI
Safety Systems Engineering in Autonomy
Risk Perception and Management
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
- Publication date
- 8 February 2026
- Language
- EN