Religious Actors and Artificial Intelligence: Examples from the Field and Suggestions for Further Research

Abstract

Abstract In recent years, the intersection between religion and artificial intelligence (AI) has spurred discussions of a philosophical and theological nature in the academic literature and in public debates. These discussions have often focused on the potential of “general” and “strong AI” to replace God and/or human intelligence. However, this does not reflect the state of the technologies currently in use. We argue that there are several ways in which religious actors interact with existing “narrow” or “weak” AI tools that merit the attention of researchers working on religions and AI. We look at the practical ways in which religious actors use existing AI tools for their activities, while also considering their engagements in terms of education-, advocacy- and policy-related initiatives in the field of AI. Based on a range of examples of how religious actors employ and assess AI technologies within and beyond their religious practices, we present preliminary reflections on these interactions and suggest questions for further research.