Artificial Intelligence and Behavioral Engineering: Hidden Societal Costs and Design Challenges in Consumer Contexts
Abstract
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just optimizing consumer experiences—it is actively engineering behavioral environments through algorithmic design. This qualitative exploratory analysis examines the hidden societal costs and design challenges of AI-driven consumer systems by synthesizing insights from psychology, digital ethics, behavioral economics, and human–AI interaction. The study identifies ten interrelated domains—such as hyper-personalization, emotional AI, dark nudging, neuromarketing, and synthetic influencers—that reveal how AI systems reshape consumer autonomy, trust, and decision-making. A novel conceptual framework and Theme–Implication Matrix are developed to link AI’s behavioral mechanisms with design-level ethical risks and governance needs. Findings emphasize the need for transparent, human-centered AI architectures that balance personalization with cognitive integrity. The study contributes to socio-technical system design by framing AI as a behavioral engineering force with profound implications for consumer agency, digital equity, and sustainable innovation.
Keywords
References
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Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Software Engineering (Other)
Journal Section
Research Article
Authors
Publication Date
December 31, 2025
Submission Date
June 3, 2025
Acceptance Date
December 28, 2025
Published in Issue
Year 2025 Volume: 13 Number: 4
