Derek Cormier

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Derek Cormier is a pioneering researcher in human-robot interaction (HRI), whose work explores the psychological and ethical dimensions of robotic authority. His primary research areas include obedience to robots, human trust in autonomous systems, and the social dynamics of human-robot collaboration. Cormier’s most influential contribution is his landmark study, “Please Continue, We Need More Data: An Exploration of Obedience to Robots” (2015/2016), which has garnered 45 citations and remains a cornerstone in the field. In this work, he adapted classic Milgram-style obedience experiments to HRI, demonstrating that people can be compelled to follow a robot’s commands even when they are reluctant, raising critical questions about automation in high-stakes environments like healthcare, military, and emergency response. His earlier foundational paper, “Placing Robots in Positions of Authority” (2013), laid the groundwork for this research, showing how robot appearance and behavior influence perceived authority. Cormier’s studies are notable for their rigorous methodology and ethical foresight, directly informing debates on robot design and policy. His work has been widely cited by engineers, psychologists, and ethicists, cementing his reputation as a key voice in understanding how robots shape human behavior.