From Apomediation to IAMediation: Algorithmic Risk and the Illusion of Autonomy in Digital Health en [Ponencia] 2nd International Conference on Applied Research in Humanities & Social Sciences

Authors

• Luis M. Romero-Rodriguez, University of Sharjah
• Bárbara Mercedes Castillo Abdul Hadi, Universidad de Diseño, Innovación y Tecnología, UDIT

ORCID

Bárbara Castillo Abdul Hadi ORCID

Files

Description

This presentation examines the evolution from apomediation to AIMediation in digital health, focusing on the role of artificial intelligence as an active intermediary in users’ access to health information and decision-making. It explores how personalization algorithms, recommendation systems and predictive models shape the information users receive, potentially creating information bubbles and limiting exposure to diverse perspectives. The presentation proposes a three-axis conceptual framework comprising algorithmic intermediation, perception of autonomy and informational vulnerability. It highlights the gap between users’ perceived independence and the often-invisible influence of algorithmic systems, as well as the risks associated with limited digital literacy, health anxiety, over-reliance on automated guidance and trust in technological authority. The discussion addresses the implications for privacy, critical evaluation and health-related decisions, emphasizing the need for transparency, explainability, human oversight, ethical AI practices and mechanisms that preserve users’ informational autonomy.

Publication Date

10-2-2026

City

Sharjah, Emiratos Árabes Unidos

Keywords

Apomediation, AIMediation, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Health, Algorithmic Intermediation, Algorithmic Risk, User Autonomy, Health Information, Informational Vulnerability, Digital Literacy

Comments

Presentation delivered at the 2nd International Conference on Applied Research in Humanities & Social Sciences, “Future Society in the Age of AI,” organized by the Research Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Sharjah, UAE, February 10–12, 2026. The presentation examines AI-mediated access to digital health information and its implications for user autonomy, algorithmic influence and informational vulnerability.

Recommended Citation

Romero-Rodriguez, Luis M. and Castillo Abdul Hadi, Bárbara Mercedes, "From Apomediation to IAMediation: Algorithmic Risk and the Illusion of Autonomy in Digital Health en [Ponencia] 2nd International Conference on Applied Research in Humanities & Social Sciences" (2026). Congresos y Conferencias. 72.
https://sciencevalue.udit.es/congresos_conferencias/72