AI and the rise of religion

The rise in AI is already changing so many facets of how we function in society. AI is going to be driving our cars. It is taking more and more space within the workplace.

In spite of all the fear mongering that happens, and even I fall into, there are many ways in which this technological shift is going to be wonderful. It will add so much convenience into life. Productivity is certain to rise. There will be an increase in understanding and supporting our health. I can imagine it leading to more leisure and more creativity. Maybe it is leading us into a world of abundance.

Or maybe it will turn out to be something like the Matrix or Terminator.

Regardless, one of the things that I think is under appreciated is how this new intelligence will help us better see and understand and appreciate our own.

When we experience Artificial Intelligence, we will better experience Human Intelligence.

As we distinguish what is human and what is artificial, I believe we will begin to treasure what it is to be human. We will come to better appreciate and cultivate human skills and to participate in the things that make us human.

I believe that religion is one of those things, and in fact we are already seeing a surge in people who are curious about faith-religions and are seeking truth through these ancient human practices.

We see large figures in culture spearheading this movement. Our current president brings God up in his speeches. Famous actors and public voices like Russel Brand, Joe Rogan, and Jordan Peterson are battling with truth and religious ideas in a very public way. And, though a lot of data is still mixed, it is clear that those in society who claim to be not affiliated with any faith has stalled and there may be a rise in traditional Christianity.

In a less scientific way, I have noticed many more of my friends and acquaintances interested in and talking about spiritual matters and beginning to attend churches.

It is as if there is something in the air, and suddenly being Christian or interested in religion is acceptable again.

I think that AI is only going to increase the curiosity in religion.

AI makes us consider what it is at a fundamental level to be human. Religion gives answers to that.

AI makes us consider what it is at a fundamental level what humans were created to do. Religion gives a framework for that.

After decades of blistering technological development, our minds and bodies and souls are craving a deeper connection with each others and the mysteries of the created world.

The certainty of AI and the amalgamation of all information ever produced providing answers in seconds has left us yearning for the unsearchable and unanswerable.

AI is going to be great for so many in work, in convenience, in abundance. But it is also going to give rise to the mystic, to the truth-seekers, and to the religious.

I don’t question so much if the shift is going to happen, but rather if the churches are ready for the influx of serious seekers entering their community.

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