Digital Commensality
摘要
In this chapter, we explore themes connected to digital commensality, examining how technologies such as commensal robots, virtual dining companions, and tele-dining platforms aim to recreate the social and emotional richness of shared mealtimes. As solitary eating becomes more common, these innovations seek to transform isolated meals into interactive experiences that promote connection and well-being. The chapter considers examples ranging from Mukbang broadcasters to socially assistive robots, reflecting on their potential to foster companionship and support healthier eating practices. At the same time, it addresses ethical and practical concerns, including the possibility, and at the same time, risk of replacing genuine human interaction with artificial substitutes and the challenge of preserving authenticity in digitally mediated dining. Finally, the discussion highlights emerging possibilities, such as dining in the metaverse, while critically assessing the promises and limitations of such technologies in reshaping commensality for the future.