READINGS

The case PRO agents:

1. Interview with Pattie Maes in IEEE "humanizing the global computer"

2. Maes, P. (1994). Agents that reduce work and information overload, Communications of the ACM (provides an introduction and some examples of agents)

The case against agents:

1. Agents of Alientaion, Jaron Lanier

2. Schneiderman, B; Direct manipulation versus agents: Paths to predictable , controllable and comprehensible agents

Optional:

Maes, P., Schneiderman, B., "Direct Manipulation vs. Interface
Agents: a Debate." Interactions, 4 Number 6, ACM Press, 1997
(ACM membership required)

QUESTIONS

What are your thoughts on agents versus direct manipulation? Can you think of a way to combine both styles of interaction succesfully in one interface? Are there ways of implementing agents (and the agent interface) that would keep Lanier & Schneiderman satisfied?

What are some of the social & legal implications of agents? What are some issues/problems that may need to be addressed?