What we talk to when we talk to language models

When we talk to large language models, who or what is our interlocutor? First, I address some issues about how best to characterize the interlocutor in terms of mental states. Second, I discuss questions in the philosophy of computation about what sort of AI system an LLM interlocutor might be. Third, I analyze some issues about personal identity in LLM interlocutors. Fourth, I draw some conclusions for issues about AI welfare and moral status.