Susannah Black Roberts, a senior editor at Plough and writer for notable conservative publications, discusses the complex relationship between AI-generated art and Christian values. She argues that AI art is a contradiction, akin to pornography, undermining authentic creativity. The conversation dives into ethical concerns regarding AI's role in religious expression and warns of potential demonic influences. Roberts advocates for preserving human artistry, emphasizing that genuine worship should not be outsourced to technology.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Real vs. Simulated Experience
Susannah Black Roberts was inspired by Patrick O'Brian's books to work on a ship.
A friend who played a captain simulator video game thought they'd shared a similar experience, shocking Roberts.
insights INSIGHT
AI Art Lacks Devotion
AI-generated religious art lacks genuine devotion and knowledge.
It cannot convey a personal connection with sacred figures like the saints.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Embrace Real-World Creation
Counteract AI's negative effects by engaging in real-world creative activities.
Encourage children to write, draw, and create to understand true human experience.
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There is increasing speculation and concern about the role of AI in the future of the arts. Surprisingly, many Christians are already embracing the use of AI to produce images of the saints. In this episode, Thomas and Susannah Black Roberts make the argument for why AI art is a contradiction in terms. It is analogous to pornography in that it scratches the itch to “create” without actually achieving the object of the desire in question. We should not use technology to replace the human specialties: “God won’t accept worship that we outsource.” Plus, the danger of demonic influence through AI should not be overlooked.
Susannah Black Roberts is a senior editor of Plough and has written for publications including First Things, Fare Forward, Front Porch Republic, Mere Orthodoxy, and The American Conservative.
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