Today’s world is more technologically mediated than ever before. The progress in consumer smart technologies is wonderful and world-changing, but it is also racist, sexist, and discriminating. This thesis critically examines the prevailing issue of sexism in domestic Voice Assistants. The design inquiry investigates the anthropomorphism of technology leading to (false) emotional ties, the gendered representation of Voice Assistants as the 24/7 available persona, and the bigger question of how technology shapes human experience. The repercussions of these design choices contribute to reinforcing harmful gender biases and perpetuating inequality. Following the research through design principles, I have used design proposals, sketches, scenarios, and prototypes to reconsider and critically reflect upon current norms of design and interaction with voice agents at home. Through the creation of two artifacts and speculative videos, the outcome proposes a future where voice agents transition from mere assistants to social actors with agency. It challenges current norms and roles assigned to domestic voice agents toward a more equitable an morally conscious technological landscape.

Committee

James Pierce, Chair
Audrey Desjardins, Chair