The evolution of the human-machine relationship in the era of intelligent communication: from tools to symbiosis

Abstract

In this context where intelligent communication has achieved high penetration rate, human beings’ relationship with media technology is being changed profoundly from all aspects. As for communication aspect, this essay aims at discussing the evolution of the relation between man and machine, from “tool” to “symbiosis”, considering their history in terms of logic and drives.it recognizes and compares four main types of such relation: tool, cooperation, integration, and symbiosis, distinguishing the different degrees of power ownership, modes of interaction, agency, and trust. Based on that, the paper discusses possible problems in symbiosis – such as tech dependence, subject melting, algorithmic black boxes, and accountability vacuums—and suggests parallel solutions in the form of a reconfiguration of communication literacy as well as institutional adaptation. We contend that in intelligent communications settings, people and computers will be more fused and interdependent with each other. As McLuhan anticipated, every prosthesis involves a loss; therefore, symbiosis is never an end but rather an endless contest between stimulation and anaesthesia.’’ By examining this trend, we can approach how to cope with the future communication environment more wisely as well as reach a healthier coexistence among humans and machines.