Stephen Presley, an author and professor at the Center for Religion Culture and Democracy, dives deep into the impact of AI on faith and work. He discusses how technology intersects with pastoral duties and the ethical implications it brings. Presley raises concerns about efficiency versus character formation, urging listeners to reflect on their spiritual virtues. Using jazz as a metaphor, he emphasizes the need for creativity alongside structure in integrating new technologies. The conversation challenges us to consider the essence of humanity in our rapidly evolving world.
AI's integration into work requires spiritual discernment to ensure it aligns with biblical values and community integrity.
The pursuit of efficiency through AI risks overshadowing the profound impact of work on spiritual formation and personal growth.
Deep dives
Understanding the Intersection of AI and Faith
The discussion centers on the relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) and spiritual formation, particularly within the context of church work. It emphasizes that AI is not merely about enhancing efficiency but raises deep questions about the kind of persons individuals are called to be. Throughout history, new technologies have challenged the church, necessitating thoughtful engagement with their moral implications. The podcast explores the foundational biblical ideas that inform these discussions, suggesting that spiritual discernment is crucial as the church navigates these rapidly evolving technologies.
The Ethical Implications of AI in Pastoral Work
Significant ethical issues arise for pastors in relation to AI, particularly concerning embodiment and community. The notion of embodied human existence is explored, highlighting the importance of physical presence in nurturing spiritual relationships. Additionally, the discourse extends beyond the physical aspect to address how AI's influence on authority and decision-making can impact moral and spiritual development. The challenge remains for pastors to uphold the integrity of community and spiritual formation while integrating AI into their ministries.
AI's Impact on Work and Spiritual Formation
The conversation broadens to examine how work itself shapes spiritual formation, with particular attention given to the sanctification process. It highlights the 'sanctification gap' in evangelical circles, where focus has lagged on the ongoing life and growth of believers. The role of work as a formative experience is discussed, urging individuals to recognize work as integral to their spiritual lives. Using examples from the early church, it is reiterated that the way we engage in work can profoundly influence our spiritual health and growth.
Navigating Efficiency and Value in AI Use
A critical examination of the pursuit of efficiency in the use of AI raises concerns about potential idolatry and the core values driving organizational efforts. While efficiency can streamline tasks, there is a pressing need to examine the ultimate goals of such increases and who we become in the process. The discussion underscores the importance of maintaining a balance between leveraging efficiency and ensuring it aligns with Christian values and quality of life. As organizations navigate AI technologies, the focus should remain on enhancing human connection and purpose rather than simply maximizing productivity.
Artificial Intelligence is inescapable in todays workforce and is impacting both the marketplace and the church in significant ways.
We begin this three-part series on the intersection of AI and faith, theology and work with a conversation between host Jeff Hoffmeyer and Stephen Presley. Stephen is an author, professor and senior fellow for Religion and Public Life at the Center for Religion Culture and Democracy. Together they discuss the importance of considering how AI is impacting our lives and our souls.
On efficiency and formation:
“One of my concerns is if we’re just trying to get better and better and better, what is it that we are trying to become? What kind of person, or what kind of people, is scripture calling us to be? Efficient is not the only virtue that scriptures are calling us to be.”
On how technology asks us to improvise:
"So our institutions are facing remodeling through a whole variety of technological advances, and that improvisation is built on the assumption, like I use the image of a jazz player, where only someone who is skilled in jazz can know how to pick up an instrument and just go. If I were to do it, it would not sound. Well, the assumption there is that it is Christian virtue, Christian mores, Christian assumptions that are guiding the performance. So I think the same needs to apply to any new technology, particularly the implementation of any sort of AI, AI programming or any of that that underneath it, you're still dealing with questions of virtue, questions of morality, questions of spiritual formation."