HOW WILL AI IMPACT DISPUTE DYNAMICS IN 2026?

Recently, I wrote about AI’s impact on escalating family and business conflicts. I described the coupled confirmation bias. I showed how it leads to tunnel vision. This creates a micro-scale version of the security dilemma. Today, I share reflections on how Large Language Models (LLMs) will change dispute dynamics in 2026. Current trends will likely not reverse on their own. Instead, everything points to their significant intensification.

How AI Influences Dispute Dynamics?

AI directly shapes how conflicts evolve. I will not repeat my previous articles here. Instead, I am providing links to the most important ones. They contain links to the latest scientific publications and my other texts. This article does not provide legal advice for Poland. It explains general conflict dynamics.

I wrote about people using AI to diagnose and solve important legal problems:

https://jakubieciwspolnicy.pl/ai-zastapi-prawnikow/

In that same text, I explained why such analysis is insufficient. It is often incomplete and requires legal verification.

You can read about how lawyers and clients use AI:

https://jakubieciwspolnicy.pl/korzystanie-z-ai-przez-prawnikow-i-klientow-podstawowe-problemy/.

However, my most important article is available at this link in polish version https://jakubieciwspolnicy.pl/ai-i-myslenie-tunelowe-w-sporach-miedzy-wspolnikami/ and the english one: https://jakubieciwspolnicy.pl/en/ai-and-tunnel-vision-in-shareholder-disputes/ . I describe the universal rules of the conflict, so don’t hesitate to read it. It is not any analysis of the polish law.

I described the mechanism of coupled confirmation bias in detail there. I showed how it leads to dangerous tunnel vision.

The greatest risk arises when both parties use AI models to interpret each other’s behaviors. This can lead to rapid, uncontrolled conflict escalation.

Read more about the feedback loop here: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11860214/ This article by M. Glickman and T. Sharot discusses how AI feedback loops change human judgment.

I also recommend the text regarding causal explanations in AI by L. Celar and R.M.J. Byrne: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36964302/

Finally, I suggest the article by Liu Y and Moore A. It covers intuitive judgments regarding AI and moral transgressions. It is valuable for understanding social perceptions: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40448478/

The Impact of AI on Conflict Intensity in 2026

There are no rational reasons to expect a reversal of current trends. We see growing AI accessibility and rising trust in AI. Furthermore, the computational capabilities of language models continue to expand.

I assume a group of people will become emotionally dependent on their “relationships” with AI. Withdrawn or lonely individuals will be particularly vulnerable. Those not used to critical thinking face the highest risk. A lack of critical assessment makes the AI model a “moral authority” rather than an information source. If you doubt human emotional bonds with machines, remember the Tamagotchi craze.

I believe AI’s role in shaping human emotional attitudes will grow. This will directly affect how we perceive current relationships. We will observe increased atomization and polarization of individuals and groups. Atomization occurs because AI companionship may seem more attractive than human contact. Already weak social ties will weaken further. Polarization will result from frequent human’s consultations with AI on sensitive matters like family or business partnerships. In a dispute, users might not seek a solution. Instead, they may seek validation for their own narrative.

These mechanisms will become increasingly common. Public awareness may not keep pace with AI’s real-life impact.

Can AI Be Helpful in Resolving Disputes?

Yes! Despite the risks, AI will also have strong positive aspects. AI will serve in prevention. It helps predict potential conflict areas and secure them early. Language models are helpful here. They easily create multiple scenarios and highlight potential risks. They will certainly function as an effective early warning system.

Generative AI will also help find rational solutions to existing disputes. Its ability to multiply potential outcomes is amazing. After describing a deadlock, the chat may suggest a solution we missed. However, we must always critically evaluate these suggestions. We must predict their long-term consequences across many levels.

In every case, the role of AI remains auxiliary. It builds variants well but struggles to analyze legal and emotional consequences.

At this point, reference should also be made to the research of Marco Giacalone, who points to the significant potential of language models in dispute resolution: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=5083207. The author writes that ‘The integration of generative AI reduces costs and allows legal practitioners to focus on complex issues, strategic planning, and client interaction.’ According to the author, AI will not replace humans, but will be a very valuable tool in their hands. I agree with this approach.

AI Influences Dynamics but is Neither Good Nor Evil

It makes no sense to ask if AI is “good” or “bad.” We should study its impact within specific contexts. Our species created AI. Trying to put the “genie back in the bottle” is impossible and pointless. Let’s objectively study its impact on our thought patterns and relationships. We should draw logical conclusions from these observations. Use this technology to benefit yourself and others. I believe this is possible. However, do not let AI replace human friendship and intimacy. Do not allow law and health to fall under unreflective AI influence.

We are dealing with a powerful new tool. It is a new source of influence on our psyche. Humanity has never known a tool this powerful. Yet, every great discovery brings both opportunities and threats. Ultimately, the outcome depends entirely on us.

Unlike nuclear energy, almost everyone now has direct access to AI. AI will amplify what is already hidden and strong within us.

Invitation to Cooperation

Have you noticed AI suggestions influencing your private or business relationships? Do you see this impact on yourself?

Perhaps you notice the other party becoming more radical lately?

I invite you to discuss this in the comments or contact our law firm. We help clients build strategies and resolve disputes optimally.

We consider many factors: law, psychology, communication, and technology. This is our strength.

📩 kancelaria@jakubieciwspolnicy.pl 

📞 +48 536 270 935