“A fool with a tool is still a fool and a tool in the hands of a fool is a bad thing.” Such a statement could not be truer of humanity’s latest technological tool, argued Director of the Center for Faith & Society at Fribourg University’s Oliver Dürr as he spoke with the CPCE’s Advisory Board on Ethical Issues on April 16th. The Advisory Board continues their work on “Being Church Together in Times of Uncertainty”, this time with a focus on AI and the opportunities (or threats) it provides churches.
Dürr gives us reasons to appreciate artificial intelligence and other technologies that have developed over the decades, citing its practical usage in many areas. More importantly, though he gives us the truth about AI and what it does. Behind the big promises of tech corporations and the fears that many have about AI taking over lies the reality of AI: statistical models that analyze wide swaths of data to produce statistically plausible responses to questions by the user. AI does carry dangers, both for individuals and for society. For inexperienced users and the younger generations, the false information disseminated by AI may not be obvious.
Even more alarming are AI companies that rely on relationship bots for revenue, engaging with young people in a way that can be manipulative and cause emotional dependency between man and machine. Both in AI usage and in responding to problems created by AI and any other technology entering society, the Protestant Church holds a role of responsibility. As AI and the companies that create AI tools become increasingly prevalent, churches need to advocate for humans. They must advocate for ethical usage of AI, advocate for considerations of what it means to be human, and fight fear with understanding as we grow to better understand exactly what AI can be and what it can’t. As Dürr makes clear, the Church is a place that can be a human voice for a human future, with a focus on relationships, community, and standing up for the marginalized. The impulses given by Dürr will be integrated into an upcoming publication and Lenten campaign by the CPCE. Further details and invitation to “Save the Date” will follow in the coming months.