Human augmentation technology refers to technical assistance that enhances human capabilities. This includes things like augmented reality headsets, as well as exoskeletons. A study by LMU’s Human-Centric Ubiquitous Media Chair reveals that users have high expectations of the effectiveness of these technologies. As soon as they believe AI is improving their cognitive abilities, they start taking risks. And it does this regardless of whether the AI is actually assisting it or not.
The hype around AI applications affects user expectations. This can lead to more dangerous behavior. “
Steven Villa, Postdoctoral Fellow, Human-Centric Ubiquitous Media Chair, lead author of the study
Exclusion of placebo effect
In this study, participants were informed that they would be assisted by an AI application that enhanced their cognitive abilities during a virtual card game. There was actually no such AI enhancement. Nevertheless, participants were willing to take higher risks as soon as they believed they were benefiting from AI.
This study points to the possibility that there may be placebo effects similar to those of well-established pharmaceuticals in this type of technical application. “As people interact more and more with intelligent systems, it’s important to understand the potential placebo effect so that we can build systems that provide real support,” he said. Prof. Albrecht said his Schmidt. Before releasing an AI application, researchers recommend evaluating its real-world benefits, given possible placebo effects. Additionally, they advise technology companies to involve users and their expectations more deeply in the development process.
sauce:
Ludwig Maximilian University Munich
Reference magazines:
Villa, S. other. (2023) Placebo Effect of Human Augmentation: Anticipation of Cognitive Augmentation Increases Risk-Taking Behavior. Computer in human behavior. doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2023.107787.
