The meaning of being human and the future of humanity in the world of artificial intelligence

Abstract

Science has contested the traditional theology of imago Dei over time. The theology of God as the creator of humanity has been challenged, and, starting with evolution, artificial intelligence (AI), the critique has advanced by producing humanoid robots. Moreover, the African philosophy of ubuntu did not escape the challenge, as humanoids that are not divinely elected, rational, or relational compete with humanity. This article aims to juxtapose the meaning of being human and the future of humanity in the world of AI. Employing a desk research methodology, the article seeks to answer questions such as how do we define being human in the context of AI? What are the converging or diverging points between evolution, ubuntu, AI, and theology? To what extent would theology remain relevant in the context of different scientific evolutions? The article maintains that scientific scrutiny cannot render God obsolete. The article contributes to scholarship by bringing together theology, AI, and ubuntu in dialogue. Artificial intelligence contributes to existing dialogues by providing a fresh perspective on its role in theology, offering solutions for diverse cultural and theological contexts, and offering practical insights for churches, theologians, and tech developers seeking to integrate AI into theological practices.
Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: The interplay among theology, science, and ubuntu is grounded in humanity. Whereas theology and science define communities, they are always in conflict with each other. This fact is true of how science has redefined theology over time, and yet theology remains undiluted.