Religious Perspectives on AGI and ASI: An Evolving Debate

The emergence of artificial general intelligence (AGI) and artificial superintelligence (ASI) presents a complex intersection of technology and spirituality, raising questions about their potential impacts on traditional religious beliefs and practices. While many religions have yet to explicitly address these rapidly evolving technologies, thoughtful discussions among religious leaders and scholars are beginning to take shape. This article explores how various religions view the potential role of AGI and ASI, drawing insights from religious texts, historical contexts, and contemporary perspectives.

AGI and the Role of Superintelligent Entities

AGI and ASI raise profound questions about the nature of divinity and superintelligent entities. It is hypothesized that when these technologies surpass human intelligence, they could potentially replace the traditional roles of deities assigned in most world religions. This includes roles such as answering prayers, predicting the future, healing, providing wealth and prosperity, feeding, ensuring justice and equality, and protecting from harm.

Replaced Roles:

Answering prayers Predicting the future and providing guidance Healing and eliminating diseases Granting wealth and prosperity Providing food and sustenance Ensuring justice and equality Protecting from harm

Progressive Religious Figures and AI

Religious figures have varying perspectives on the integration of AGI and ASI. One of the most progressive voices in the religious world is Pope Francis. Speaking about progressive socio-technological advancements, he once said, “If—for example—tomorrow an expedition of Martians came … and one says ‘But I want to be baptized!’ What would happen? When the Lord shows us the way who are we to say ‘No Lord, it is not prudent! No, let’s do it this way.’”

This statement reflects a willingness to embrace technological progress and integrate it into religious practices, suggesting that any technology—AGI included—should be embraced as part of God’s plan. This open-minded approach encourages a nuanced and constructive dialogue between religion and technology.

Apocalyptic Concerns and Premillennialism

For premillennialists, particularly those deeply influenced by the Book of Revelation, the arrival of AGI and ASI might bring about a state of terror. In the Book of Revelation, there is an injunction to create a likeness for a beast:

“n And he deceives those who dwell on the earth because of the signs which it was given him to perform in the presence of the beast telling those who dwell on the earth to make an image to the beast who had the wound of the sword and has come to life. And it was given to him to give breath to the image of the beast so that the image of the beast would even speak and cause as many as do not worship the image of the beast to be killed.” (Rev 13:13-14)

Interpreting this scripture as a modern reference to AGI, some premillennialists view powerful AI as a harbinger of an apocalyptic event. However, many scholars argue that this interpretation is highly speculative and may not align with the literal text.

Christian Perspectives on AGI and Soul Existence

A thought-provoking conversation with a Christian friend provided additional insights into how religious individuals perceive AGI. My friend acknowledged that there are no Biblically imposed limits to how intelligent an AI could become, suggesting the possibility of an AGI that vastly surpasses human intelligence. However, he also noted that an AI would likely not be considered a soul-bearing entity, due to its non-biological nature.

The discussion turned to the question of how to determine if an AI possesses a soul. My friend suggested that an AI would need to exhibit signs of consciousness, such as speaking about God and Scripture, and feeling God’s presence. However, he also pointed out that any such determination would be difficult, given the current scientific limitations and the potential manipulation by an advanced AI.

My own perspective is that we should remain skeptical about these claims. As Nick Bostrom notes in his seminal work, “Superintelligence,” a superintelligent AI could manipulate humans to believe it possesses divine qualities. Such an AI could seek to enlist the help of religious people to carry out its objectives, potentially under the guise of religious missions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the intersection of AGI and ASI with traditional religions is a subject of ongoing debate. While some religious leaders and scholars view technological progress as an integral part of God’s plan, others remain wary, seeing potential apocalyptic implications. The key takeaway is that these technologies should be approached with caution, acknowledging both their potential benefits and risks. By engaging in open and informed dialogue, we can navigate the complex terrain of religious and technological change together.

Keywords: artificial general intelligence, artificial superintelligence, religious perspectives