Arousal – how alert or excited we feel – is a key part of our emotions, yet scientists still don’t fully understand how the brain generates this feeling or how it differs from bodily reactions like sweating or a racing heart. Led by Professor Benjamin Becker from HKU’s Department of Psychology, a recent study used AI-driven modelling and advanced brain imaging to identify a unique brain signature that measures emotional intensity across various situations, from seeing a loved

As artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots and virtual agents become part of everyday life — from customer service and healthcare to personal companionship – a critical question arises: How do these AI interactions affect social and emotional dynamics? In his recently published framework, Professor Benjamin Becker from the Department of Psychology at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) explains that the human brains are naturally wired for social interaction through evolutionary