A new perspective article published in Nature proposes using experimental methods to predict how future technologies will affect human behavior. The article, authored by Rahwan and colleagues (Nature 644, 5158; 2025), suggests that understanding decision-making processes is crucial for anticipating the societal impact of emerging technologies.

The authors argue that by employing rigorous experimental designs, researchers can gain insights into how individuals will interact with and respond to new technological advancements. This approach aims to move beyond speculation and provide data-driven predictions that can inform policy decisions and guide technological development.

However, the article does not address how encounters with new technologies can transform users' values and preferences in unpredictable ways, a concept explored by L. A. Paul in "Transformative Experience" (Oxford Univ. Press, 2014). This perspective highlights the potential for technologies to fundamentally alter an individual's sense of self and their understanding of the world, making it difficult to foresee the long-term consequences of their adoption.

The research emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together experts in psychology, computer science, and behavioral economics. By combining these diverse perspectives, researchers can develop more comprehensive models of human behavior in the face of technological change.

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the economy, and understanding its impact requires a robust scientific approach. Experimental methods offer a promising avenue for exploring the complex interplay between technology and human behavior, but it is essential to acknowledge the limitations of predictive models and the potential for unforeseen consequences.

The related article, Nature 649, 827 (2026) doi: https:doi.org10.1038d41586-026-00209-4, highlights the importance of bots in understanding the impact of AI on the economy.