This contribution analyzes the role of generative artificial intelligences as new social agents in the context of contemporary digital mediation. Starting from the concepts of parasocial interaction and relational automation, it investigates the forms of algorithmic agency embodied by virtual influencers and emotional chatbots. The article adopts a theoretical framework inspired by the sociology of symbolic interaction and ethnomethodology, to interpret the ways in which AIs contribute to the construction of social reality. Relevant sociological, ethical, and political implications emerge, prompting a critical reflection on the impact of synthetic technologies in affective and identity dynamics
Il presente contributo analizza il ruolo delle intelligenze artificiali generative come nuovi agenti sociali nel contesto della mediazione digitale contemporanea. A partire dai concetti di interazione parasociale e automazione relazionale, si indagano le forme di agency algoritmica incarnate da virtual influencer e chatbot emotivi. L’articolo adotta un quadro teorico ispirato alla sociologia dell’interazione simbolica e all’etnometodologia, per interpretare le modalità attraverso cui le IA contribuiscono alla costruzione della realtà sociale. Emergono implicazioni sociologiche, etiche e politiche rilevanti, che sollecitano una riflessione critica sull’impatto delle tecnologie sintetiche nelle dinamiche affettive e identitarie
Un mondo popolato da esseri sintetici. Le intelligenze artificiali come agenti sociali
D. Bennato
Writing – Original Draft Preparation
2025-01-01
Abstract
This contribution analyzes the role of generative artificial intelligences as new social agents in the context of contemporary digital mediation. Starting from the concepts of parasocial interaction and relational automation, it investigates the forms of algorithmic agency embodied by virtual influencers and emotional chatbots. The article adopts a theoretical framework inspired by the sociology of symbolic interaction and ethnomethodology, to interpret the ways in which AIs contribute to the construction of social reality. Relevant sociological, ethical, and political implications emerge, prompting a critical reflection on the impact of synthetic technologies in affective and identity dynamicsI documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.