The Theology and Ethics of Artificial Intelligence Technologies
by Ximian Xu
In this interview, originally recorded in Mandarin at Singapore Bible College in 2024, Dr. Ximian (Simeon) Xu of the University of Edinburgh shares about his pietist house church upbringing, scientific background, and how he has uniquely used his careers in engineering and theology to help us understand AI and guide the development of AI ethics, with direct applications for the church.
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This question reminds me of when I was studying computer science and technology. During my four years at university in China, although I was studying computer science, I made sure to keep reading theological books, including those translated from foreign languages and those written by Chinese authors. I think this is very important. From my personal experience in studying computer science, we should not turn ourselves into machines. Humans differ from machines in one crucial aspect: critical thinking with consciousness and a sense of humanity. For instance, Jackie studying chemical engineering, or me doing computer programming, we can't produce humanity from these activities. There is an underlying layer of humanistic education that needs persistent training. Our reflections and pursuits in faith can greatly enhance and grow in this area. For example, if we acknowledge that our Lord is the Creator of heaven and earth, then the subjects and objects of study in science and engineering naturally fall within His creation. The knowledge we acquire can be used to express and convey our faith.
This is the first point, that continuous engagement with theology is necessary, even for an ordinary believer, who can also pursue substantial growth in theological reading and faith.
Secondly, I've noticed that discussions about AI are very hot in many parts of Asia. I often see friends sending me pictures of posters about conferences and events of different regions discussing AI and the church or AI and the gospel. At the same time, some use AI in church activities or services. I think this is good. In a sense, churches in Asian regions are more advanced than Western contexts in using technology, more cutting-edge, and more contemporary. However, in emphasizing science and engineering so much, we must not neglect the aspects that science cannot touch. For example, we might quickly apply AI to church settings, like virtual churches in the West where you can participate in worship, listen to sermons, and partake in sacraments online with a virtual avatar representing you.
But in this process, especially in Asia where there is such a strong focus on science, we must not forget that the communion of saints and the church building cannot be fully managed digitally. There are many situations where the results of machine or scientific research are insufficient. We know that, as the Bible tells us, "Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep" (Romans 12:15). When I was writing an article on AI pastoral care and reflecting on this scripture, my reflection concluded that the word “with” carries a much more important connotation than that of the words "rejoice" and "weep." The physical presence and the specific space-time created by God are crucial, and these cannot be interpreted through a scientific or technological lens, otherwise humanity would be completely digitized and reduced to mathematical models. I believe many things can be discussed and compared, but at least one thing is clear from my reflection: we should not turn our faith and our very selves into machines, because we are far more important in God's eyes, a far greater work of His creation.
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Ximian (Simeon) Xu is on the Faculty of Divinity at University of Cambridge, and serves as Co-Director (with Prof. David Fergusson) of the Cambridge Centre for Chinese Theology. Before joining Cambridge, Ximian completed a Master of Divinity (First Class Honour), Master of Theology (Distinction), and PhD in systematic theology at the School of Divinity, University of Edinburgh, as well as a Bachelor of Engineering in China and Master of International Trade and Commerce Law in Australia.
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Category: Academic
Date created: 2024
Key terms: ethics, philosophy, faith and work
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. This English edition is copyright © 2024 by the Center for House Church Theology. All rights reserved. Cover design and illustration by PC Ng.
The original interview can be found at:
Hwang, Jackie and Luah, Jean, hosts. "徐西面 - 人工智能技术的神学与伦理学 (Simeon Xu - The Theology and Ethics of Artificial Intelligence Technologies)." Mosaic: a Podcast of Singapore Bible College, April 18, 2024. Used with the permission of Singapore Bible College.
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