Humans and AI
Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we work, make decisions and form relationships. We are researching the psychological effects of AI and human-AI interactions and laying the scientific foundations for a considered approach to new technologies.
Technology and Human Behaviour
How do artificial intelligence and synthetic relationships shape human interaction? Why do people form relationships with new technologies, and how does this affect their thoughts, feelings, and actions?
We view artificial intelligence as part of a social infrastructure that influences our perceptions and social dynamics. A key aim of our work is to identify the psychological prerequisites for the responsible use of AI. Building on this, we empower people to make informed decisions about the benefits and consequences of their use of AI.
We combine psychological theories with empirical research and societal relevance, placing great emphasis on transdisciplinary and international collaboration. Our aim is to help shape techno-social innovations that contribute to responsible and safe coexistence in a digitalised society.
«For me, AI represents a kind of stress test for our coexistence. In this new subject area, I see an opportunity to be effective and to shape a way of living together that combines technological progress with human values.»
Dr Marisa Tschopp
Head of Human and AI
Our focus areas
We investigate how people experience and use artificial intelligence. From this, we establish scientific foundations for a responsible and ethically informed approach to AI.
Our focus is on the social and emotional perception and use of AI. A key area of our work is AI literacy, understood as the ability to engage critically and ethically with artificial intelligence. Other areas of focus include gender, diversity, and inclusion, as well as the use of AI in research and teaching.
- Human–AI Interaction
We investigate socially relevant areas of application such as synthetic relationships (AI companions), artificial intelligence in psychological counselling, and human–AI teaming. Our focus is on processes such as anthropomorphism, trust, and the impact of algorithms on human experience and behaviour. - AI literacy
We research and develop models of AI literacy with the aim of empowering people to make informed decisions about the use of artificial intelligence. To this end, we devise metrics and intervention strategies that promote the responsible use of technology in a measurable and practical way.
International and transdisciplinary collaboration
The Human and AI subject area is focused on collaborating with international networks and with partners from the worlds of research, business, and public and charitable organisations. We provide evidence-based decision-making frameworks for the ethical design and use of AI systems and make these publicly available. These findings are directly incorporated into teaching, continuing professional development, and internal and external services.
