Exploring Human-Machine Coexistence in Symmetrical Reality

2026-02-25

AI Summary

This study addresses the challenges posed by advancing artificial intelligence to traditional anthropocentric paradigms of human–computer interaction by proposing a novel conceptual framework termed “symmetric reality.” This framework integrates physical and virtual domains to model equitable coexistence between humans and AI within blended environments. Through a cross-domain integration approach, it transcends the limitations of existing human–AI interaction theories by reconceptualizing the relationship as one of mutual agency and shared presence. The work offers the first systematic articulation of the symmetric reality paradigm, establishing an innovative theoretical foundation and research trajectory for fostering harmonious human–AI coexistence.

Technology Category

• Humans and AI: Human-Computer Interaction
• Cognitive Modeling & Cognitive Systems: Social Cognition And Interaction
• Intelligent Robots: Human-Robot Interaction

Application Category

• Economics, Online Markets and Human Computation: Research challenges in human and human-AI computation
• Responsible Web: Machine-in-the-loop, human agency and autonomy
• Semantics and Knowledge: Data modeling to support human-machine intelligence, including LLMs agents, intelligent system behavior, explanations, and user-friendly interactions

Abstract

In the context of the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI), the interaction between humans and AI entities has become increasingly salient, challenging the conventional human-centric paradigms of human-machine interaction. To address this challenge, it is imperative to reassess the relationship between AI entities and humans. Through considering both the virtual and physical worlds, we can construct a novel descriptive framework for a world where humans and machines coexist symbiotically. This paper will introduce a fresh research direction engendered for studying harmonious human-machine coexistence across physical and virtual worlds, which has been termed "symmetrical reality". We will elucidate its key characteristics, offering innovative research insight for renovating human-machine interaction paradigms.

Problem

• human-machine coexistence
• symmetrical reality
• human-centric paradigm
• AI entities
• virtual and physical worlds

Innovation

• symmetrical reality
• human-machine coexistence
• human-AI interaction
• virtual-physical integration
• symbiotic paradigm