The Empathy Machine

Brains and Barstools brings captivating professors to downtown Toronto bars for vivid, entertaining talks that spark curiosity and connection over drinks (alcoholic and non-alchoholic options available). On Jan 21st, we present : "The Empathy Machine" by Prof. Michael Inzlicht, PhD.

Empathy is one of the most human things we do — but now, machines are learning to do it too.

In "The Empathy Machine", psychologist Michael Inzlicht explores the rise of empathic AI: technologies built not to outthink us, but to understand us. These systems can listen, comfort, and even help the lonely feel less alone. They’re already finding their way into therapy apps, customer service bots, and digital companions — promising a world where emotional support is just a tap away.

But as empathy becomes easier, the questions get harder.
What happens when machines care too much? When does care become compliance? And if AI can simulate empathy perfectly, what does that say about us?

With his trademark curiosity, Dr. Inzlicht offers a cautiously optimistic take: that empathic AI, when used thoughtfully, could help people society often overlooks — and remind us of what real understanding still means.

💡 About the brilliant ProfessorMichael Inzlicht, PhD.

Michael Inzlicht is a Professor of Psychology at the University of Toronto and the Rotman School of Management, and Research Lead at the Schwartz Reisman Institute for Technology & Society. His research explores the paradoxes of human motivation—why people both avoid and seek mental effort—and how digital technologies are reshaping behavior, emotion, and wellbeing. He has pioneered work on the mental costs of empathy and is now examining whether artificial intelligence can express empathy more effectively than humans. Widely cited and internationally recognized, his work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, and TIME. He also writes the Substack newsletter Speak Now Regret Later.

📅 Date: January 21, 2025
🕡 Time: 6:00 – 8:00 PM
📍 Location: Entertainment District / Trinity Bellwoods
🎤 Speaker: Prof. Michael Inzlicht, PhD

Join us for an evening that blends psychology, technology, and a dash of existential wonder — all over a drink.

🎟 Seats are limited! Early bird tickets available for a limited time.