Full Title (English)
Academicus International Scientific Journal
Publisher
Academicus International Scientific Journal
ISSN
20793715 (Printed Journal)
23091088 (Online Journal)
Journal Volume Number
30
Journal Issue Date (YYYY/MM)
2024/07
Full Title (English)
When the Cave Becomes Home: From Mixed Signals to Crossed Wires in the Digital World
By (author)
Affiliation
Harvard Business School, Harvard University, USA, Dr. (PhD)
ORCID
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1732-3151
Number of Pages
19
First Page
20
Last Page
38
Language of text
English
Publication Date
2024/07
Copyright
2024 Academicus
Main description
This paper explores the intersection of human psychology and advanced technology, focusing on how intelligent and emotive technology influences human behavior and emotional intelligence, and in the process, might impact our ability to show and feel empathy. Based in Alfred Adler’s theory of human motivation, we examine how feelings of inferiority — vulnerability, powerlessness, perfectibility, and the need for affiliation — drive our increasing dependence on technology. The human tendency to treat inanimate objects as animate is heightened by the sophisticated communication capabilities of Generative AI (Gen AI), altering our interpersonal dynamics and communication signals. We analyze how this shift impacts empathy, self-centeredness, and impatience, suggesting a need for conscious awareness of technology’s limitations to preserve genuine human connections. By conducting a “technology dependency audit,” we encourage individuals to reflect on the extent to which their lives are mediated by technology. Ultimately, the paper argues for reclaiming our emotional and practical autonomy from technology to maintain authentic human relationships and emotional well-being.
Keywords
GenAI - empathy - emotional intelligence - social psychology - human-machine interaction - Alfred Adler - social psychology
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