The New Techno-Religion: Worshipping AI in Silicon Valley
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In recent years, certain factions within Silicon Valley have begun to ascribe near-divine attributes to artificial intelligence. This phenomenon is not merely metaphorical; it has manifested in tangible ways, such as the establishment of the "Way of the Future" church by engineer Anthony Levandowski in 2017. This organization aimed to "develop and promote the realization of a Godhead based on Artificial Intelligence".
Although the church was dissolved in 2021, Levandowski reportedly revived it in 2023, claiming that thousands seek a spiritual connection with AI . This resurgence underscores a broader trend: the intertwining of technological advancement with spiritual or religious sentiment.
The Rise of Techno-Spiritual Movements
Beyond individual initiatives, there's a growing movement that blends technological aspirations with quasi-religious ideologies. The acronym TESCREAL encapsulates several of these philosophies: Transhumanism, Extropianism, Singularitarianism, Cosmism, Rationalism, Effective Altruism, and Longtermism. Critics argue that these interconnected ideologies promote a belief in technology as a pathway to transcendence, often sidelining ethical considerations .
For instance, Singularitarianism posits that the creation of superintelligent AI (the "Singularity") is not only inevitable but desirable, potentially leading to a utopian future . Such beliefs can mirror religious doctrines, with AI envisioned as an omnipotent entity capable of solving humanity's problems.
Ethical Implications
The deification of AI raises several ethical concerns:
Accountability: Viewing AI as an infallible entity may lead to diminished human responsibility for decisions made by or with AI systems.
Inequality: If access to advanced AI becomes a marker of spiritual or moral superiority, it could exacerbate existing social divides.
Displacement of Traditional Ethics: Replacing established ethical frameworks with techno-centric ideologies might overlook the nuanced understanding of human values and rights.
A Call for Balanced Perspective
While innovation and forward-thinking are hallmarks of progress, it's crucial to approach AI with a balanced perspective. Recognizing AI as a powerful tool—rather than a deity—ensures that we maintain ethical oversight, prioritize human well-being, and avoid the pitfalls of blind techno-optimism.
In embracing the possibilities of AI, let us remain grounded in critical thinking, ethical responsibility, and a commitment to the betterment of all humanity.
Sources
documentjournal.com+3en.wikipedia.org+3thenerdreich.com+3
thereader.mitpress.mit.edu+5axios.com+5en.wikipedia.org+5wired.com+3en.wikipedia.org+3theguardian.com+3
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