AI and Christianity

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is right at the forefront of innovation. To help is explore the implications of AI technology, ISCAST hosted a forum: AI x Christianity: Gospel Wisdom for an AI World.

What were the key learnings from the night?

I could discuss the realities of transhumanism and technoptimism, though I am not sure whether I could to the topic justice (or if anyone would be interested in such things). However, what I can confidently write on are the ethical realities we are facing as digital beings in an AI world. What is important to remember is that there is a LONG way to go before machines can develop any form of consciousness, and some say this task is merely impossible. Regardless of whether we are experiencing the full potential of AI, or whether we are still decades away from such advancements, it is important that the church explores the ethical and theological principles surrounding AI.

So, if we’re not experiencing the full potential of Artificial Intelligence, what is it that we’re currently using?

Current AI models are fuelled by something called ‘deep learning’ algorithms. These algorithms have seen advancements across various industries, from healthcare and finance to transportation and entertainment, however they are not as scary as they appear. Forms of AI have existed since the 1940s, and though AI systems can perform complex tasks, what we’re observing is just a collection of information that has been gathered from all corners of the internet. It may seem like wizardry, however, current AI is just mass data collation shared through beautifully crafted sentence.

Yes, it is that simple.

For AI, these pieces of information are just words strung together; nothing more profound than the predictive text found on our phones, or the grammar and spellcheck features on our Word Documents.

While AI systems can simulate intelligence and exhibit sophisticated behaviour, the current AI models lack true awareness or subjective experience. Things like self-awareness, morality, and spirituality—someone’s consciousness—continues to remain the hallmark of human existence. Because AI cannot form its own moral and ethical reasoning, we can rest easy knowing that we are far from a world that sees machines ‘taking over’. Though the intersection of faith and AI still raises a few ethical and moral discussions.

The truth is current AI programs and systems can be used to perpetuate fake news and generate mass media hysteria. Because of these social implications romecall.org has developed six key principles Artificial Intelligence models should follow:

1. Transparency: AI systems must be understandable to all.
2. Inclusion: These systems must not discriminate against anyone because every human being has equal dignity.
3. Accoundability: There must always be someone who takes responsibility for what a machine does.
4. Impartiality: AI systems must not follow or create biases.
5. Reliability: AI must be reliable.
6. Security and Privacy: These systems must be secure and resect the privacy of users.

If we’re able to engage, develop and promote a sense of social responsibility across various sectors, the church can contribute to shaping a more ethical and equitable future for AI. By engaging in these conversations, we continue to keep social flourishing as the cornerstone of Jesus’ ministry.