Human connection in a digital society

In this episode, we explore what happens to human connection in an increasingly digital world. Nesli Hazal Oktay, Associate Professor of Interaction Design at the Estonian Academy of Arts (EKA), explains why efficiency should not always be the main goal of digital services and how concepts such as “remote intimacy” and intentional friction can help preserve meaningful relationships. The conversation looks at how Estonia’s digital society balances convenience with human needs, why small everyday interactions still matter, and how designers can help create more empathetic and human-centred public services.