The Intersection of Bernard Lonergan's Critical Realism, the Common Good, and Artificial Intelligence in Modern Religious Practices

Bibliographic Data

ID3267458
AuthorsSteven Umbrello (0000-0003-2594-6313, Fondazione Bruno Kessler, corresponding author)
Year2023
Volume14
Issue12
Pages1536
Publication date2023-12-13
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueReligions (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2077-1444 • E-ISSN: 2077-1444
PublisherMDPI AG (PUBLISHER • IT)
DOI10.3390/rel14121536
OpenAlexW4389686833
LanguageEN
Citations received12
References cited30

Artificial intelligence (AI) profoundly influences a number of societal structures today, including religious dynamics. Using Bernard Lonergan's critical realism as a lens, this article investigates the intersections of AI and religious traditions in their shared pursuit of the common good. Beginning with Lonergan's principle that humans construct their understanding through cognitive processes, we examine how AI-mediated realities align with or challenge traditional religious tenets. By delving into specific cases, we spotlight AI's role in reshaping religious symbols, rituals, and even creating novel spiritual meanings. Using Lonergan's insights on the balance between subjectivity and objectivity, I analyze AI's potential to both create new sacred spaces and challenge religious orthodoxy. The crux of the discussion centers on the negotiation between religious values and technological innovation, assessing how AI can bolster religious life while maintaining its core essence. Ultimately, this article underscores the importance of the common good in the age of AI-driven religious evolution

Environmental ethics · Epistemology · Negotiation · Orthodoxy · Realism · Religious life · Religious pluralism · Social science · Sociology · Subjectivity · Theology · Computer Science · Death Anxiety and Social Exclusion · Media, Religion, Digital Communication · Philosophy · Religion and Society Interactions · Religious studies

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