Half-time seminar - Lux Miranda: "Artificial identity: Robots, philosophy, and practice"

External Reviewer: Prof. Sara Ljungblad from the Chalmers University of Technology

Abstract: In this seminar, I shall present my research on how artificial identity is constructed, performed, and practiced within the field of human-robot interaction (HRI). I begin with a structured, intersectional review of the HRI literature which reveals that past approaches to robot identity have often neglected race, pathologize neurodivergence, and lack meaningful engagement with intersectionality. Building on this critique, I then share findings from two empirical studies exploring how diverse gender and ethnic identity performance in social robots influence children’s trust, learning, and creative engagement in a classroom setting. These studies show that norm-breaking robot identities can challenge stereotypes and foster more inclusive and trustworthy learning environments. Finally, I propose a general theoretical model of artificial identity woven of a synthesis of contemporary scientific and Buddhist philosophy of identity. Rejecting essentialist notions, this model conceptualizes artificial and human identity as dynamic, psychosocially constructed, and contextually real—offering a foundation for more coherent, ethical, and unconstrained systems of identity. Together, these works aim to reorient the discourse on artificial identity toward fundamentally greater nuance, equity, and ethical responsibility.