A new study from Trinity College Dublin argues that we need to rethink how humans and machines interact to address today’s pressing social problems.

From fake social media accounts to self-driving cars, trading algorithms, and AI chatbots, the study highlights the importance of understanding the growing role machines play in society.

Researchers from Ireland, the UK, the US, and Germany reviewed cases where algorithms, bots, and robots work with or against humans, whether by competing, coordinating, or communicating.

Rethinking the norms

They challenge the long-standing belief that only humans can think socially, make decisions, and create meaning in conversations. The study suggests that this view is outdated, as machines are now actively participating in society, driving cars, trading stocks, and shaping online discussions.

The authors call for social scientists to study human-machine interactions more closely, for AI engineers to design systems that consider these interactions, and for policymakers to support a diverse and resilient social ecosystem of humans and machines.

This new focus, the researchers argue, is key to solving modern problems like online misinformation, stock market instability, cybersecurity risks, and road safety. A better understanding of human-machine interactions will help build stronger and more adaptive communities.