Narrative-based human–artificial collaboration: A reflection on narratives as a framework for enhancinghuman–machine social relations

Serbanescu, Anca; Ciancia, Mariana; Piredda, Francesca; Bertolo, Maresa

Abstract

This paper aims to reflect on human–artificial intelligence (AI) collaboration in cultural production and depicts the collective socio-cultural imaginary focusing on humans’ intrinsic vulnerabilities related to AI systems, which are often perceived as a way of reshaping human presence within contemporary society. Abandoning an anthropocentric perspective, contemporary ecosystems should include non-human and AI systems. Our hypothesis states that their interactions could be reshaped by adopting a narrative framework. Since humans are social animals, if the power of stories is used for embracing plurality', sociality can be extended to include AI systems. Considering such premises, relationships between humans and AI may also enrich existing relational ecosystems with new meanings that challenge and redefine the limits of what is considered socially acceptable. The result is an integration of narrative tools and world building practice within interaction design processes. Storytelling can be intended as a mindset and a tool, underlying the crucial role of narratives in supporting the emotional dialogue among humans and AI systems, creating an overall sense of belonging between human and non-human actors.

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (published)
• Conference Name: Pivot 2021: Dismantling/Reassembling. Design Research Society
• Start Date: Jul 22, 2021
• End Date: Jul 23, 2021
• Acceptance Date: Jul 22, 2021
• Publication Date: Jul 22, 2021
• Deposit Date: Apr 8, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Apr 10, 2025
• Journal: Pluriversal Design Special Interest Group
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Book Title: Pivot Conference Proceedings 2021
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.21606/pluriversal.2021.0038