Digitalisation of sexuality: Emotional embodiment and processes of co-construction of knowledge

The aim of this work is to examine how the process of emotional embodiment can restructure various aspects of the person, with a particular focus on sexuality. As highlighted in the full chapter ‘Digital Sexuality and Artificial Intelligence’ of the book ‘Emotion, Embodiment and the Virtual World’ (Auriemma, 2024), this phenomenon emerges as a crucial element in contemporary life. Interaction with virtual elements, such as bots, automated chats, auto-responders and avatars, is increasingly frequent. Contrary to what Grosz argues, in the digital context the body is not defined by organs or physicality, but by processes delineated by the digital world. In this environment, people ‘meet’ and experience pleasures and passions through the avatar, which is controlled by the person in the physical world. The activities carried out range from the most complex to the most elementary, thus influencing behaviour. This work takes up fundamental elements of sociological classics, in particular the concepts of action and alienation of Marx and Weber. The analysis focuses on the role of the concept of embodiment in virtual sexuality, exploring how it is co-constructed, represented and inserted in a discourse of social action. The avatar becomes the point of contact that facilitates interaction between people, mediated by new technologies. This study aims to understand how emotional embodiment in the digital context can influence sexuality and social behaviour, offering a new perspective on human interaction in the virtual world. In addition, the ethical and psychological implications of these virtual interactions will be considered, analysing how the perception of the self and the other is modified through the use of avatars and other forms of digital representation. We will discuss how virtual sexuality can challenge traditional norms and create new forms of expression and identity. Finally, we will explore the therapeutic potential of emotional embodiment in the digital world, assessing how these technologies can be used to improve people’s emotional and relational well-being.