At the IBT, we study behavior and technology from a human-centered perspective. We use latest methods to conduct fundamental research and to study technological applications and their implications for individuals, organizations, and society at large.
Technologies are becoming increasingly autonomous, from smart kitchen devices and robotic vacuum cleaners to self-driving cars and service robots. In fact, some voices argue that we are about to move from the age of automation to the age of autonomy. Autonomous technologies can make decisions and complete tasks on behalf of humans, promising unprecedented levels of convenience and efficiency. At the same time, this novel class of technology endangers some fundamental human motives. At the IBT, we examine how these changes affect the relationship between humans and technology, which barriers to consumer adoption exist, and what the societal consequences may be in the long run.
Exemplary Publications:
- Whillans, A., de Bellis, E., Nindl, F., & Schlager, T. (2020). Robots Save Us Time—But Do They Make Us Happier?. Harvard Business Review. [Link]
- De Bellis, E., & Johar, G. V. (2020). Autonomous shopping systems: Identifying and overcoming barriers to consumer adoption. Journal of Retailing, 96(1), 74-87. [Link]