Technological Salvation or Secular Utopia? Christian Metaphors in Artificial Intelligence Discourse

Ziwei Shuai

doi:10.71222/9xhyyq14

Authors

Ziwei Shuai University College London, London, United Kingdom Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.71222/9xhyyq14

Keywords:

artificial intelligence, Christian metaphors, technological salvation, secular utopia, AI ethics, singularity, religious narratives

Abstract

This research article examines the pervasive use of Christian metaphors in discourse surrounding Artificial Intelligence (AI), analyzing whether these metaphors function as promises of technological salvation or secular utopias. The study investigates how concepts like ‘creation,’ ‘intelligence,’ ‘transcendence,’ and ‘the singularity’ echo religious narratives, shaping public perception and ethical considerations of AI development. Through a critical analysis of academic papers, industry reports, and popular media, the research identifies specific instances where Christian theological frameworks are implicitly or explicitly employed to frame AI’s potential impact on humanity. Furthermore, it explores the implications of imbuing AI with religious significance, questioning whether this metaphorical language fosters unrealistic expectations, masks potential risks, or reinforces existing power structures. The analysis considers historical precedents of technological utopianism and secularization, drawing parallels and divergences between past aspirations and current narratives surrounding AI. Ultimately, this article seeks to deconstruct the theological underpinnings of AI discourse, offering a nuanced perspective on the cultural, ethical, and philosophical dimensions of this rapidly evolving technology. The goal is to promote a more critical and informed understanding of AI’s potential benefits and challenges, disentangled from the often-unacknowledged influence of religious metaphors.

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