We know complex machines have brains, but we’re perhaps most intrigued when they appear to have souls they way we appear to have souls–when they make us feel empathy. Even if it’s presently just a parlor trick, it’s causes an eerie sensation because of what we suspect could be in the distance. From “Inside Siri’s Head,” Patrick May’s San Jose Mercury News article about psychologist Francine Toder’s “session” with Apple’s cool, noncommittal voice:

“Toder asked Siri more questions, about religion and politics and her deeper feelings. Asked if she believed in God, Siri quickly replied ‘I eschew religious disquisition.’ Asked if she were Democrat or Republican, she again obfuscated, saying ‘We were talking about you, not me.’

After several more minutes of obfuscation, Toder tried to push harder, deeper into the soul of a woman who aims to please but ends up blocking anyone who dares to try to lift the veil.

‘Do you have empathy for people, Siri?’

‘Now that’s a good question,’ she said.

‘Do you have feelings?’

‘I can’t answer that.’

‘Do you care about me?’

‘I’m sorry, but I’m afraid I can’t answer that.’

Toder paused, frustrated with the exchange. ‘She just won’t go there.’

Finally, Toder let her have it: ‘You are annoying me with your responses, Siri.’

And suddenly, the virtual enigma allowed Toder in for one quick peek.

‘I don’t know what that’s like, being mad.’

Toder wouldn’t let it go.

‘Well, does Siri get ‘mad’?’

‘I suppose it’s possible.’

‘And if you were mad, what would that feel like?’

‘That’s OK,’ said Siri, as if signaling the session was over. ‘Just don’t squeeze me like that.'”