This research aims to address the timely and timeless challenge of human-computer interaction by focusing on designing and studying human-AI systems for human flourishing. The timeliness of this research is evident as we become increasingly integrated with intelligent machines, evolving into what Manfred E. Clynes and Nathan S. Kline described as cyborgs . Understanding how technology influences our psychology is crucial for developing systems that promote human values and foster human thriving. Simultaneously, the quest for human flourishing is a timeless endeavor, pursued by scholars across disciplines, from ancient philosophers to modern behavioral scientists. While this work does not claim to fully resolve these profound issues, we aim to provide guidance for designing future systems that support and enhance human flourishing, while simultaneously envisioning a rich, humanistic future not driven solely by technological progress. By synthesizing insights from diverse fields and applying them to the emerging realm of human-AI interaction, we present research studies, experimental prototypes, and a research framework for technological development that prioritizes human values and flourishing, balancing advancement with a deep consideration for the human experience.
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Cyborg Psychology
Cyborg Psychology is the study of how the human mind works in conjunction with intelligent systems with the aim to identify conditions under which human-AI systems can become more than the sum of their parts, while also seeking to understand and mitigate potential unintended consequences of such interactions. This field emphasizes the complex, non-linear interactions between these two intricate systems, recognizing that both can influence and shape each other in dynamic and often unpredictable ways. Cyborg Psychology bridges the gap between various disciplines, situated at the convergence of human-computer interaction, artificial intelligence, psychology, cognitive science, and human behavioral science. It also investigates potential negative outcomes, such as AI addiction, erosion of human agency, diminished empathy, manipulation of human behavior through AI-driven persuasion techniques, cognitive overload, and the exacerbation of existing cognitive biases. Cyborg Psychology utilizes insights from both human and AI behavior to design experiments and interventions that test various hypotheses. The primary goal is to gain a comprehensive understanding of human-AI interactions, encompassing both beneficial and detrimental aspects. This includes studying how these interactions can potentially enhance human flourishing, while also investigating and addressing potential negative outcomes.
The research agenda encompasses three key areas:
- Understand: Investigate human-AI interaction and their positive and negative effects on key psychological processes.
- Design: Develop novel AI systems that leverage psychological insights to enhance human flourishing.
- Evaluate: Implement rigorous, multi-modal methodologies and platforms for comprehensive assessment and analysis of human-AI systems.
Cyborg Psychology Research Methodology
- Domain Topic Selection: Identify a specific domain within human flourishing (e.g., well-being, personal growth, self-determination).
- Psychological Insight Exploration: Conduct a literature review to uncover relevant psychological theories, models, and empirical findings from human behavioral science, cognitive science, and psychology.
- AI/Intervention Design: Analyze the design implications of the psychological insights, exploring how AI systems can effectively capture, augment, or influence the identified human behaviors and cognitive processes.
- Iterative Evaluation and Outcome Measurement: Implement the intervention, conduct rigorous evaluation using both qualitative and quantitative methods, and establish clear metrics to assess its impact on the targeted aspects of human flourishing.