AI Metaphors

In this project, we conduct a broad survey of 50 works of science fiction literature with the aim of cataloging different conceptual metaphors used to describe artificial intelligence in popular design fictions about AI. Through an iterative review process we identify 5 dimensions of conceptual metaphors for AI found in science fiction. We then identify a gap in the existing metaphor space and write a series of science fiction stories in order to explore this gap further. Finally, we construct a series of visual and tangible artifacts from the science fiction stories and run a user study in which we ask participants questions about these design fiction and the novel conceptual metaphors for artificial intelligence therein. We end with a design framework that describes how science fiction and design fiction can be used to explore AI in future HCI work. You can read a longer description of the project here.

I am actively recruiting undergraduates for this project.