In a significant address at the Religions for Peace World Council in Istanbul, Republic of Türkiye, Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles laid out a compelling vision for the future of artificial intelligence. His pivotal remarks underscored the urgent need for global faith communities to actively engage in shaping AI’s trajectory, ensuring its development aligns with profound ethical considerations and human dignity.
Elder Gong’s address, titled “Faith, Ethics, and Human Dignity in an Age of Artificial Intelligence (AI),” served as a powerful call to action for religious leaders worldwide. He emphasized that as humanity ventures into technologically uncharted territory, there is an unparalleled imperative to integrate enduring, faith-based ethical principles and moral values into the pervasive, exponential reach of AI systems.
The core message centered on the indispensable role of faith in guiding technological advancement. Elder Gong articulated that spiritual perspectives offer unique insights into humanity’s shared values, which are vital for constructing an AI framework that serves, rather than diminishes, human flourishing. This interdisciplinary approach to artificial intelligence ethics is crucial for navigating complex societal challenges.
A key aspect of his address was the call for faith communities to contribute actively to the creation of safe, ethical, and trustworthy artificial intelligence. This involves advocating for responsible innovation, promoting discussions on the societal impacts of AI, and fostering a global dialogue that bridges technological progress with moral responsibility.
The three foundational ways global faith leaders can act on AI-centered issues, as highlighted by Elder Gong, revolve around the concepts of faith, ethics, and human dignity. These pillars are presented as essential safeguards, ensuring that AI development remains tethered to a clear understanding of human purpose and societal well-being, rather than purely technological capabilities.
The setting of the Religions for Peace World Council in Istanbul provided a fitting backdrop for such a global conversation, illustrating the potential for interfaith collaboration on pressing contemporary issues. Leaders from diverse religious traditions gathered, underscoring a collective recognition of the profound implications AI holds for all aspects of human life and society.
Elder Gong’s impassioned plea serves as a potent reminder that the advancement of artificial intelligence is not merely a technical endeavor but a deeply moral and ethical one. The future of AI, he suggested, will be shaped by the degree to which humanity can imbue it with enduring values that prioritize human flourishing above all else.
This global dialogue is critical for steering AI away from potential pitfalls and towards outcomes that genuinely benefit humanity. The ongoing discussions initiated by leaders like Elder Gong are paramount in ensuring that this powerful technology is developed responsibly and compassionately, serving the best interests of individuals and communities worldwide.
Ultimately, the emphasis remains on the urgent need for immediate, concerted action as artificial intelligence continues its rapid evolution. By uniting faith, ethics, and human dignity at the forefront of AI development, global leaders can ensure a future where technology empowers humanity in ways that are both innovative and profoundly moral.
