/ˈfʌŋkʃənl ˌænθrəpəˈmɔːrfɪzəm/From CASA (Computers as Social Actors).
Definition
The pragmatic strategy of treating an AI system as if it were a human agent, not because it
actually is one, but because doing so optimizes prediction and control. By adopting the "Intentional
Stance"—attributing beliefs, desires, and roles to the machine—users can more effectively guide its outputs.
This is not a philosophical error; it is a user interface heuristic.
The Interface as Face
Humans are hardwired to interact with other minds. We cannot toggle this off. Thus, the most efficient
way to use a neural network is to "hack" our own social cognition, using polite requests, role
definitions, and dialogue.
Field Notes & Ephemera
Field Note: You say "please" to the model not because it has feelings, but because
"please" is a token that shifts the probability distribution towards helpfulness.