mensmaschine

Mensch-Maschine is a German compound noun meaning “man-machine,” used to describe the relationship and interaction between humans and machines. In technical contexts, the term covers human-machine interfaces, automation, and sociotechnical systems. It is common in German-language literature on ergonomics, cognitive engineering, and human-computer interaction, where phrases like Mensch-Maschine-Interaktion or Mensch-Maschine-Interface denote the exchange of information and control between people and machines.

Historically, the concept also appears in cinema and science fiction. In Fritz Lang’s 1927 film Metropolis, the robot is referred to in German as Maschinenmensch (“machine-human”), with Maria as the model for a humanoid figure used to manipulate society. The Maschinenmensch is widely recognized as an early depiction of a humanoid robot and has influenced later ideas about artificial life and human-robot interaction.

Beyond fiction, the idea underpins modern systems engineering and AI design, emphasizing usability, safety, and human oversight. In contemporary discourse, Mensch-Maschine often contrasts human judgment with automated processes, highlighting collaboration rather than replacement.

Related terms include human–computer interaction and human–robot interaction.