Don Ihde’s alterity relation focuses on the quasi-otherness of dynamic technologies that interact with humans. The alterity relation is one means to study relations between humans and artificial intelligence (AI) systems. However, research on alterity relations has not defined the difference between playing with a toy, using a computer, and interacting with a social robot or chatbot. We suggest that Ihde’s quasi-other concept fails to account for the interactivity, autonomy, and adaptability of social robots and chatbots, which more closely approach (...) human alterity. In this article, we will examine experiences with a chatbot, Replika, and a humanoid robot, a RealDoll, to show how some users experience AI systems as companions. First, we show that the perception of social robots and chatbots as intimate companions is grounded in communication. Advances in natural language processing (NLP) and natural language generation (NLG) allow a relationship to form between some users and social robots and chatbots. In this relationship, some users experience social robots and chatbots as more than quasi-others. We will use Kanemitsu’s another-other concept to analyze cases where social robots and chatbots should be distinguished from quasi-others. (shrink)

Virtual reality (VR) offers a simulated environment where users can interact directly with their surroundings and provokes questions about embodiment and disconnection. This article will demonstrate how VR’s unique embodiment features differentiate it from the experience of non-VR online and video games and allow the transfer of movement and first-person perspective into the ‘gamespace.’ Drawing upon Merleau-Ponty’s concept of embodiment, I will argue that 1) VR is a coping experience, and 2) the VR environment becomes the world of our engagement. (...) This understanding of the VR experience allows us to reassess this technology, showing how it uses bodily action and perception to open up new digitally-mediated possibilities for connection. (shrink)

Using quantum technologies (QTs) to solve problems related to climate change is a key goal for many physicists at the research and development stage. Recent research anticipates numerous real-world applications for quantum technologies that will address climate change and further sustainable development goals. However, currently there is no guiding framework for implementing responsible, sustainable innovation, or criteria for evaluating the sustainability of QTs. The goal of this article is to augment previous responsible innovation (RI) analysis of, and recommendations for, quantum (...) innovation by emphasizing sustainability as a key value. This article will also provide specific recommendations for developing sustainable QTs and criteria to assess the sustainability of QTs. With increases in funding for quantum innovation and the predicted operationality of many QTs in the coming decades, this is a key moment to discuss values and shape the quantum innovation trajectory. By using an RI approach with an added emphasis on sustainability, this article offers tools for developing responsible, sustainable QTs that are sensitive to the climate change context. (shrink)