Mediated Social Touch. Interdisciplinary Exploration of Digital Touch to Connect Humans

The aim of this interdisciplinary and exploratory project at the intersection of social science (sociology, geography), neuroscience, haptics, design and computer science/AI is to gain a comprehensive, multi-perspective understanding of the status quo, and the potential of mediated social touch (MST) for connecting humans in a digitalized world (human–machine–human interaction). What is/can be the (future) role of MST for “proximity at distance”, for social inclusion and societal participation in the context of the increasing digitalization and diversification of Japanese and German societies?

The project centers around a three-day internal workshop (October 15-17) in Hakone and a public symposium (October 18) at the OAG Hall in Akasaka, Tokyo. Experts and practitioners will discuss topics such as diversity & inclusion, social haptics/social touch, ELSI (Ethical, Legal and Social Issues) and design.