Mapping Anthropomorphism through Bibliometrics and TCCM Approach

This research study focuses on appraising the relevant studies in anthropomorphism, i.e., humanizing the non-human entities. Firstly, research data points from 2,316 publications were retrieved using the Scopus database as of December 2024. Secondly, the finest literature was reviewed using Theory-Context-Characteristics-Methods (TCCM) to understand the insights and prospects of anthropomorphism studies and find the gaps. Thirdly, quantitative analysis was conducted using multiple bibliometric data points consisting of prominent authors, keywords, subject areas, source titles, institutional and country affiliations, and citations until data retrieval. Finally, an attempt was made to showcase the interconnectedness among authors, author keywords, and affiliated countries using network analysis. Anthropomorphism studies took a great leap during the last five years, publishing approximately 60% of research studies. As a country, the United States of America (USA) emerged as a solitary leader with almost 30% of anthropomorphism research. The anthropomorphism studies were deliberated in different contexts apart from its origin in psychology, such as human-technology interaction, sociology, consumer behavior, and organizational behavior.