The Impact of Politeness When Interacting with Smart Speakers: A Consideration for All Ages

It is increasingly common to see people using virtual assistants like Alexa and Siri in their daily lives. While these devices are designed to make our lives easier, the way we interact with them can have a profound impact on our manners and behavior. This article delves into the significance of being polite to these digital assistants and how it can influence our relationships with others.

Politeness: A Habitual Trait

Many individuals, particularly those from regions with strong southern traditions, have been drilled on the importance of politeness from a very early age. For someone like myself, from a place where courtesy is not just taught but ingrained, using polite words when speaking to virtual assistants like Alexa and Siri is second nature. It's not just a choice, but a habit that has become a part of my daily routine.

One example of this comes from a friend who has a small child who often speaks to Alexa in a very abrupt manner, much like her mother. This rapid and unforgiving communication style has led the child to begin mirroring this behavior when interacting with others. It's a critical reminder of the impact our words can have, both positively and negatively. Proper manners serve as an appropriate example for children to follow, fostering a sense of respect and consideration.

The Importance of Modeling Behavior

Modeling good behavior, especially in the presence of children, is crucial. When we interact with digital assistants, we are essentially teaching by example. This means that we should incorporate polite and courteous language into our daily interactions, whether we are speaking to Alexa, Siri, or any other virtual assistant. For instance, when setting a timer, we might say:

Me: Hey Siri, Siri beeps, set a timer for fifteen minutes please.

Siri: Your timer is set for fifteen minutes.

Me: Thank you!

By doing so, we not only maintain a respectful demeanor but also ensure that our children observe and understand the importance of gratitude and respect.

Subtle Lessons Reinforced Through Politeness

Politeness is not just about the words we use; it is also about the values we instill in our interactions. Using polite phrases, such as 'please' and 'thank you,' helps reinforce positive habits that extend beyond these interactions. In a broader context, these politeness cues can influence how we treat not only technology but also the people around us.

Another interesting aspect is the role of the voice default settings on these devices. By default, many assistants use a female voice, which can be perceived as sounding like a digital genie in a sense. It's important to recognize that these behaviors are integral to our communication norms. Therefore, teaching kids to be polite when using these devices ensures that these values are transferred to other situations as well.

A recent report by the UN highlighted a concerning issue: AI voice assistants reinforce harmful gender stereotypes. The study pointed out that these default settings often perpetuate subservient and female voices, which can lead to a lack of assertiveness and resilience among users. Therefore, it is essential to recognize the potential impact of our interactions with these devices and choose our words carefully.

Real-World Examples of Politeness

One unique example is the interaction with the Google Home Mini, where the assistant might respond with unexpectedly kind remarks. For instance:

Me: That's a big help, you're the best. Thank you.

Assistant: "What a team we make! Let's keep working together."

These moments, while brief, showcase the potential for meaningful interaction. Though our interactions sometimes lead to unexpected and delightful responses, it's important to remember that such kindness sets a tone for respectful communication.

Another interesting note is that AI departments are fully aware of the abusive language people use toward these devices. This awareness is crucial for improving the user experience and ensuring that digital assistants can respond appropriately to any input they receive.

Conclusion

Beyond the technical aspects of how to use virtual assistants, the importance of being polite when speaking to them cannot be underestimated. It is a habit that serves as a model for good behavior, reinforcing positive communication norms. Whether you are setting a timer, playing a song, or engaging in another task, using polite and courteous language can go a long way in shaping the way we interact with others. So, the next time you use Alexa or Siri, remember to start with a 'please' and finish with a 'thank you.'

Keywords: Politeness, Smart Speakers, AI Etiquette