Abstract
Humanity is currently facing multiple global crises of an environmental, social, and economic
nature. The recent pandemic has impacted social interactions and the public space, reducing
face-to-face contact outside the home. This has resulted in a societal response driven by fear,
characterized by concerns about bodies as potential vectors of infections or even death,
ultimately leading to physical distancing measures. However, the advancements in Human-
Computer Interaction (HCI) and innovative material enable opportunities for highly dynamic
tangible interfaces, thereby allowing haptic feedback technologies that simulate realistic touch
and experiences that feel natural. Intimacy and sexuality are fundamental aspects of human
existence and technology offers immense possibilities to enhance wellbeing in the realm of
interaction design. While technology cannot fully replace human contact, HCI can contribute to
a politic of care, especially for isolated communities, such as the elderly and individuals with
disabilities. This paper explores the significance of haptics in shaping the future of intimacy and
presents ongoing work involving soft robotics to enhance intimate experiences. From a
methodological standpoint, the exploration of interdisciplinary practices aimed at bridging
sexuality and social justice will be tested against the case of China, where rapid urbanization
and the aging of the population are leading to lower economic growth and social concerns.
nature. The recent pandemic has impacted social interactions and the public space, reducing
face-to-face contact outside the home. This has resulted in a societal response driven by fear,
characterized by concerns about bodies as potential vectors of infections or even death,
ultimately leading to physical distancing measures. However, the advancements in Human-
Computer Interaction (HCI) and innovative material enable opportunities for highly dynamic
tangible interfaces, thereby allowing haptic feedback technologies that simulate realistic touch
and experiences that feel natural. Intimacy and sexuality are fundamental aspects of human
existence and technology offers immense possibilities to enhance wellbeing in the realm of
interaction design. While technology cannot fully replace human contact, HCI can contribute to
a politic of care, especially for isolated communities, such as the elderly and individuals with
disabilities. This paper explores the significance of haptics in shaping the future of intimacy and
presents ongoing work involving soft robotics to enhance intimate experiences. From a
methodological standpoint, the exploration of interdisciplinary practices aimed at bridging
sexuality and social justice will be tested against the case of China, where rapid urbanization
and the aging of the population are leading to lower economic growth and social concerns.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Cumulus Conference Proceedings Series |
| Editors | Lorenzo Imbesi |
| Publisher | Cumulus CAFA |
| Pages | 19-24 |
| Volume | 11 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 978-952-7549-01-8 |
| ISBN (Print) | 2490-046X |
| Publication status | Published - 2023 |
Keywords
- Haptics
- social justice
- soft robotics
- intimacy
- interdisciplinarity
