Certainly this realm of science fiction brings a beneficial element, since it encourages us to examine what it means to be human.
Plus, we find topics which overlap with the topic of AI and 'almost-sentient' computer programs...
Namely in the animal kingdom. They display some degree of human nature.
And ability to learn.
Ability to communicate in certain ways.
Enjoyment working with humans.
And 'almost-human' behavior. Example, the chimpanzee who was taught to gather wood sticks into a pile, light it with a match, put food in a pan, cook it over the fire, then after supper he smokes a cigarette which he lights from the campfire!
Add children as well since they really are sentient in the way researchers wish for AI... Children acquire a certain amount of 'programming' from the start, yet additionally they reach self-awareness and can grow and become more than they are.
It's fun to imagine what AI could do. However I don't see how computers (or neural networks) can outdo what animals and children are capable of now.