Perceived authenticity of virtual characters makes the difference

Conventionally, human-controlled and machine-controlled virtual characters are studied separately under different theoretical frameworks based on the ontological nature of particular character. However, in recent years, technological advancement has made boundaries between human machine agency increasingly blurred. This manuscript proposes a framework that can explain how various characters, regardless their agency, be treated as unique social actors with focus perceived authenticity. Specifically, drawing authenticity model computer-mediated communication proposed by Lee (2020) typology multi-layered is to demonstrate do not have humans yet authentic interactants.