The impact of artificial intelligence in shaping sustainable urban interactions (a study on Generation Z in Isfahan)

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 PhD Student, Department of Sociology, Azad University, Dehaqan, Iran

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Azad University, Dehaqan, Iran

3 Assistant Professor, Computer Department, Dehaqan Azad University, Dehaqan, Iran

Abstract

The rapid acceleration of urbanization in recent decades, coupled with the increasing penetration of intelligent technologies, has made it imperative to redefine interaction patterns among humans, institutions, and the urban environment. This study investigates the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on shaping sustainable urban interactions among Generation Z residents of Isfahan. The research is applied in purpose, survey-based in method, cross-sectional in time, and broad in scope. The statistical population included 451,038 Generation Z residents of Isfahan in 2025. Using Sample Power software, a sample of 340 participants was determined and selected through quota sampling proportional to the population distribution. Data were collected using a researcher-designed questionnaire, whose validity was verified by expert judgment and reliability confirmed through Cronbach’s alpha coefficients. Data were analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS and AMOS (version 24).



Findings indicated that the overall level of sustainable urban interactions (M = 47.49) exceeded the benchmark value (M = 39.5). Among the three dimensions of interaction, the human–environment dimension had the highest mean (M = 19.60), reflecting notable environmental awareness among young residents. The human–technology (M = 15.32) and institutional–social (M = 15.26) dimensions were above average but have not yet achieved active participation levels. Conversely, the mean level of AI utilization (M = 93.76) fell below the benchmark (M = 102), indicating a gap in integrated and specialized AI use. Structural equation modeling showed that AI explains 38% of the variance in sustainable urban interactions.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Journal of Society and the Environment
Volume 2, Issue 7
February 2026
Pages 151-187

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