What ethical implications of the simulations stood out most to you?

[Melisa Jane]

This is a discussion topic for the June 2025 Book of the Month, "Anticipation Day: What Would You Do?" by Jeff Michelson

What ethical implications of the simulations stood out most to you?

[Catherine Sweet]

The mental health of the participants stood out most to me. The simulations are experimental, and even though data has shown little risk to mental health, I still feel this is an ethical issue. Participants are putting themselves under the control of others, and their mental health could be compromised. There are no guarantees this won't happen.

[NetMassimo]

Participants are supposed to be thoroughly checked up physically and mentally before and after the simulation. However, the simulations covered in the novel can include some surprising developments, which have an impact on the participants (sorry if I'm so generic, but a proper answer would include some big spoilers). If there's a sequel, I'm pretty sure that it will address this issue.

[Ali Pinar]

I really like the comment on mental health. More specifically how such technologies can be used for mental health in the future. People already show preference towards AI therapists because they do not feel judged by a human.

[Laney K]

I also agree that the mental health concerns are great. However, I also thought it was quite questionable how the simulations were being recorded and the data kept.

[Shirley Ann Riddern Labzentis]

The ethical implications that stood out the most for me was the idea that married people or those in a committed relationship could have a sexual relationship with someone else in the simulation. This seemed to be widely acceptable, and the participants were looking forward to it. It's breaking your marriage vows, whether it is a simulation or not. Some participants fell in love with their other partner in the simulation.