The future of conversation is evolving from human dialogue to hybrid human-agentic discourse
Author Identifier (ORCID)
Laurie Hughes: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0956-0608
Abstract
In an era increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence (AI), the essence of human conversation is undergoing significant transformation. Once exclusively human, conversation is now increasingly mediated by AI agents, voice assistants, and digital platforms. This paper critically explores this profound shift, examining the nature and implications of hybrid human machine discourse. Addressing three fundamental questions, we interrogate what constitutes genuine conversation when one party lacks consciousness and emotion; how traditional norms of human dialogue translate into human-machine interactions; and what considerations developers and governance frameworks must prioritize in this evolving context. Building upon Nass and Brave’s (2005) concept of “voice activation,” which demonstrates humans’ inherent social responses toward artificial speech, this study identifies the dual promise and peril of conversational AI, emphasizing the risks of confusion, over-trust, and emotional misdirection. Arguing that AI-driven dialogue is not merely automation but a profound cultural and ethical shift, this research advocates for new literacies, ethical frameworks, and a re-evaluation of what authentic communication entails. By tracing the philosophical roots and current technological practices of conversation, the study underscores the urgency of rethinking communication ethics, literacy, and practice in our increasingly hybrid human-machine conversational landscape.
Keywords
Agentic systems, artificial intelligence, communication ethics, human-machine interaction, hybrid conversation, voice activation
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Date of Publication
1-1-2026
Volume
778 IFIPAICT
Publication Title
IFIP Advances in Information and Communication Technology
Publisher
Springer
School
School of Business and Law
Copyright
subscription content
First Page
210
Last Page
222
Comments
Malik, T., Hughes, L., & Dwivedi, Y. K. (2026). The future of conversation is evolving from human dialogue to hybrid human-agentic discourse. In A. Elbanna, M. Janssen, Y. K. Dwivedi, M. Hossain, & A. S. Islind (Eds.), IFIP advances in information and communication technology: Vol. 778. Digital adoption, diffusion and innovation in the augmented and digital society (pp. 210–222). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-032-16775-0_14