Social Animals

Despite the noble goals of his research, Pentland sees his work not as philanthropic, but as the next step of the communications revolution.

"If you look at what technologies have been most effective and have had the largest impact, they are things that interact with us as people. Instant Messaging actually acknowledges that you have friends. That's amazing technology!"

	Alan uses a communication technology eye-piece.

As communications technology becomes smaller, cheaper and more accessible to all, some worry rare languages and unique cultures will end up as roadkill on the information superhighway. Pentland, however, believes human-centered designs can foster and enhance a wide variety of human relationships.

"We can build technology that supports us as social animals-and they'll be immensely popular. People are desperate for this stuff in all different walks of life."

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