  The increasing prevalence of image-altering filters on social media and video
conferencing technologies has raised concerns about the ethical and
psychological implications of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to manipulate
our perception of others. In this study, we specifically investigate the
potential impact of blur filters, a type of appearance-altering technology, on
individuals' behavior towards others. Our findings consistently demonstrate a
significant increase in selfish behavior directed towards individuals whose
appearance is blurred, suggesting that blur filters can facilitate moral
disengagement through depersonalization. These results emphasize the need for
broader ethical discussions surrounding AI technologies that modify our
perception of others, including issues of transparency, consent, and the
awareness of being subject to appearance manipulation by others. We also
emphasize the importance of anticipatory experiments in informing the
development of responsible guidelines and policies prior to the widespread
adoption of such technologies.
