arXiv:2606.12418v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: The rapid proliferation of large language models (LLMs) has produced a striking cultural practice: using conversational AI for divination. This paper offers one of the first systematic studies of LLM-mediated divination in the context of Xuanxue, an internet-native umbrella term for mystical and spiritual practices on Chinese social media. Using a mixed-methods design, we analyze 23000+ posts and comments from Xiaohongshu and conduct 32 semi-structured interviews with users and professional diviners. Users primarily consult LLMs about pragmatic
The rapid development and widespread accessibility of large language models have enabled new forms of cultural and social interaction, including a novel application of AI in traditional practices like divination.
This highlights the unforeseen cultural integration of AI, demonstrating its pervasive influence beyond purely pragmatic applications and indicating a broader societal adoption that intertwines with existing belief systems.
AI is no longer solely a tool for efficiency or information retrieval, but is being adapted for socio-cultural and spiritual purposes, blurring the lines between technology and traditional human practices.
- · LLM developers (insights into user behavior)
- · AI ethicists/sociologists (new research avenues)
- · Digital platforms that host LLM interactions
- · Traditional diviners (potential displacement/competition)
- · Regulatory bodies (new oversight challenges)
- · Those who strictly view AI as a purely rational tool
The study reveals a significant new application domain for LLMs, characterized by user interaction in traditionally non-technological spheres.
This could lead to further exploration of AI's role in cultural practices, impacting public perception and trust in AI systems in diverse contexts.
The development of 'culturally aware' or 'belief-integrated' AI services might emerge, driven by user demand for AI tools that cater to specific cultural or spiritual needs.
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Read at arXiv cs.AI