What is the relationship between artificial intelligence, robots, and theology? The connections are much closer than one might think. There is a deep spiritual longing in the world of AI and robotics. Technology is a prayer; it reveals the depth of our eschatology. Through the study of AI and robotic literature one can see a clear desire to both transcend human limitations and overcome the fallenness of human nature. The questions of ethics, power, and responsibility are not new to Christian anthropology. This book will introduce and examine some of the major ethical issues surrounding current AI and robotic technology from a theological and philosophical lens. In the study of AI and robot ethics, the Christian community has a chance to join the global efforts to build technology for good. 

Joshua K. Smith is a theologian and pastor researching the ethics of AI and robotics. He is the co-chair of the Kirby Laing Centre’s Technology Hub. He has a Ph.D. in theology and his dissertation focused on a critique of Robotic Futurism and the potential of dehumanization. He is the author of multiple books and his book Robot Theology is the topic of our conversation today.

Resources by Joshua:

• Robot Theology: Old Questions through New Media
• Robotic Persons: Our Future with Social Robots
• joshuaksmith.org

Other resources mentioned:

• Joshua’s Conversation with Preston Sprinkle
• Sex, Tech, and Faith: Ethics for a Digital Age by Kate Ott
• The Lady of the Artilects by Andrew Gillsmith

A big shout out to Bruce for seeing Joshua as the next generation and raising him up!

Music: Jordan Robson with Zeke Friedeman