'Will AI Be Morally Good for Us?' MIV Explores the Question
Published by St Mary's Calne on Wednesday 12th of February 2025
On Tuesday 11 February, as part of Academic Enrichment Week, the MIV spent the afternoon with the Religious Studies and Critical Thinking Department exploring the question, 'Will the AI of the future be morally good for us?'
Given recent technological advancements and a future that is rapidly becoming our present reality, we challenged the girls to consider the moral and social implications of such developments. While the future remains uncertain, it is this generation that will step into the unknown, and it is vital that they are as prepared as possible when that time comes!
In groups, the girls engaged thoughtfully with ethical dilemmas, such as those posed by self-driving cars, and explored what it is that makes us human and sets us apart from machines. The MIV creatively considered what kind of religion an AI might create, along with its main beliefs and teachings. They also watched a film outlining the Turing test and other methods that help us determine whether we are interacting with an AI or a human being. Some were confident they could tell the difference, while others were skeptical, given how sophisticated AI has already become. The girls also discussed the risks of AI deciding that humanity is surplus to requirements, and were challenged to think about why AI might act to remove humanity from existence.
Finally, the groups worked together to suggest ways in which increased use of technology could lead to both gains and losses for us in terms of our socialization. They considered the potential loss of social skills, the isolation and loneliness that technology might bring, as well as the extra time it might provide to spend with friends and family.
The MIV were engaged and enthusiastic throughout the session, working effectively together in what one girl described as a 'stimulating and thought-provoking' experience.
Revd Marc Thomas, Head of Critical Thinking and Religious Studies
