Human-Engaged Computing

This book introduces Human-Engaged Computing (HEC), a pioneering thought that reimagines the relationship between humans and computers. Unlike traditional Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), HEC offers a philosophical and practical foundation for designing technologies that prioritize human survival, flourishing, and spiritual growth.

HEC represents a paradigm shift, positioning technology as a medium to enhance human capacities rather than simply as a tool. Central to the HEC thought is the Human Capacity Framework, which integrates Biophysics, Intellect, and Xin. Xin/?, a concept rooted in Eastern philosophy, emphasizes inward transcendence and harmony—dimensions often neglected in conventional HCI approaches. By addressing pressing issues such as digital alienation and mental health challenges, this book provides a unified design philosophy that fosters human well-being and enlightenment. The book is structured into two parts: theoretical foundations and practical case studies. Together, these sections guide readers in creating innovative computational designs that open new pathways for technological advancement while prioritizing human-centered values.

This book is a must-read for professionals and students across diverse fields, including HCI, computer science, philosophy, psychology, and sociology. Policymakers concerned with technology’s societal impact will also find it invaluable.

Key features:

• Integrates Eastern "Xin" philosophy, redefining human–computer relations beyond traditional Western HCI for enhanced well-being.
• Presents a holistic Human Capacity Framework (Biophysics–Intellect–Xin), crucial for designing technology that truly elevates human potential.
• Addresses "Antibiosis," technology’s negative impacts on human survival, offering a theoretical lens for sustainable design.
• Provides concrete design principles for "Engaging Computers," fostering human awareness and enlightenment through future technology.
• Inspires and envisions new paradigms and possibilities for HCI, AI, ICT, and the general design of artifacts.

Xiangshi Ren is a lifetime tenured professor in the School of Informatics and was the founding director (2012–2024) of the Center for Human-Engaged Computing (CHEC) at Kochi University of Technology, Japan. He is a member of the Engineering Academy of Japan (EAJ) and a fellow of the Information Processing Society of Japan (IPSJ). He is also a senior member of both ACM and IEEE. He is the founding president and honorary lifetime president of the International Chinese Association of Computer Human Interaction (ICACHI) and was named an Asian Human-Computer Interaction Hero at ACM CHI 2015.

Prof. Ren has been working on fundamental studies in the field of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) for over 35 years. His research interests include all aspects of Human-Computer Interaction, particularly human performance models, pen-based interaction, multi-touch interaction, eye-based interaction, haptic interaction, gesture input, game interaction, mindfulness interaction, user interfaces for older users and for people with visual impairments. Over the past decade, he and his colleagues have established Human-Engaged Computing (HEC), a new conceptual framework for rethinking the relationship between humans and computers. He has published over 300 research papers, with major findings appearing in top-tier journals and international conferences. He has received multiple prestigious paper awards, including the ACM CHI 2017 Best Paper Award, ACM CHI 2019 Honourable Mention Award, IEEE SmartComp 2017 Best Community Paper Award, and ACM ISS 2016 Best Paper Award. He has mentored numerous PhD students and postdoctoral researchers from diverse international backgrounds, who are now active in HCI research and education across various continents. His Chinese book Human-Engaged Computing was published by Tsinghua University Press.

Dr. Chen Wang is an Associate Professor at Shanghai University of Engineering Science, China. He currently serves as both a Board Member of ICACHI and the Chair of its Youth Committee. He earned his Ph.D. in Human-Computer Interaction from Kochi University of Technology in Japan, under the supervision of Professor Xiangshi Ren. Dr. Wang's primary research interests lie in Human-Engaged Computing (HEC) and Human-Computer Interaction (HCI). Over the past decade, he has collaborated closely with Professor Ren on HEC through an extensive portfolio of publications, books, and the organization of international workshops. He aims to apply the broadly integrative theoretical framework of HEC to a prospective next generation operating system-level user interface architecture.