Merging Technology and Emotions: Introduction to Affective Computing

ABSTRACT

Affective computing technologies are designed to sense and respond based on human emotions. This technology allows a computer system to process the information gathered from various sensors to assess the emotional state of an individual. The system then offers a distinct response based on what it “felt.” While this is completely unlike how most people interact with electronics today, this technology is likely to trickle into future everyday life. This column will explain what affective computing is, some of its benefits, and concerns with its adoption. It will also provide an overview of its implication in the library setting and offer selected examples of how and where it is currently being used.

KEYWORDS:

• Affective computing
• affective interaction
• emotion
• feelings
• human-computer interaction

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Tara J. Brigham

Tara J. Brigham, MLIS ([email protected]) is Librarian & Supervisor, Winn-Dixie Foundation Medical Library, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224.