The Cyber-Placebo: Intelligent CPHS with Fake-AI?

The placebo effect, a well-known phenomenon in medical and psychological research, is now being explored in the realm of Cyber-Physical & Human Systems (CPHS) with the introduction of the concept of a Cyber-Placebo. This approach involves simulating the presence and functionality of an artificial intelligence (AI) component within a CPHS, while in reality, a human operator, the wizard, controls the system’s responses and behaviors. The purpose of the Cyber-Placebo is three-fold: to evaluate user interaction and satisfaction with the system, investigate perceptions of moral responsibility and accountability of AI agents, and assess user responses to the risks and benefits of AI technology. This concept raises intriguing questions about measuring, manipulating, and utilizing a Cyber-Placebo, as well as connected ethical considerations. By bridging the gap between human perception and technological advancement, Cyber-Placebos may offer a unique opportunity to explore the complexities of human-machine interactions and pave the way for future developments in AI-driven CPHS.