humancentric

Humancentric is an adjective describing approaches, processes, or systems that place human welfare, values, and dignity at the center of decision-making. It is closely related to the more common term human-centered or human-focused design, but some writers use humancentric to emphasize a humane and ethically grounded orientation to technology, policy, and social systems.

In design and engineering, humancentric design seeks to understand users’ needs through research, prioritizes accessibility, safety, privacy, and inclusivity, and aims to minimize harm while maximizing meaningful use. In policy and governance, the term is used to describe processes that include public participation, transparent accountability, and consideration of human rights and social impact. In artificial intelligence, humancentric AI refers to systems designed to align with human values, support human autonomy, and involve human oversight.

The term is not standardized and may be used interchangeably with human-centered or anthropocentric in some contexts; critics argue it can be vague or redundant. Proponents contend that humancentric language foregrounds humane concerns and ethical responsibility in design and policymaking.

Related concepts include human-centered design, user experience, usability, ethics in design, and human factors engineering.