Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and the Image of God
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Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and the Image of God

Can Machines Attain Consciousness and Receive Salvation?

by Peter J. Bellini

$28.00
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Paperback · ISBN 9781666789348 · Published: Sep 19, 2023
ISBN
9781666789348
Imprint
Wipf & Stock
Published
September 19, 2023 Sep 19, 2023
Pages
200
Dimensions
9 in × 6 in
Audience
General / Adult
Subjects
Christianity

About this book

Can artificial intelligence (AI) attain human-level consciousness? And if so, should the church minister salvation to AI? Through engaging philosophy of mind, AI research, the cognitive sciences, neuroscience, and theological anthropology, Dr. Bellini attempts to answer these questions. The hypothesis is if the hard problem of consciousness can be solved, and if human consciousness is replicable in AI, then attaining artificial general conscious intelligence (AGCI) is possible, and perhaps needs to be evangelized or discipled, as some claim. On the contrary, if the hard problem of consciousness cannot be solved and human consciousness is not replicable in AI, then AGCI is not possible, and it does not need to be evangelized. And in either case, how can the church begin a theological conversation with AI with its potential to match and exceed human intelligence and performance? A theological position on consciousness and the image of God is proposed, demonstrating the uniqueness of human consciousness in contrast with AI and artificial consciousness. A thorough exposition of the image of God is offered to serve as a cornerstone for any future conversation on a theological perspective of machines (AI).

Praise for this book

“Peter Bellini is ahead of the curve with his latest book. Artificial General Intelligence is predicted to be with us soon, and most of us have given little thought to what this means for us and our society. Bellini has thought hard about these complex issues and has done so from a multi-disciplinary approach that recognizes theology as the ultimate truth. This book will be an invaluable guide for those who want to be prepared for the AI revolution.”

Jerry L. Walls, professor of philosophy, Houston Christian University


“Masterfully bridging the gap between the realms of computer science and philosophy, this book is an indispensable guide to understanding the intricate crossroads of AI, societal implications, and theological perspectives. A brilliant and thought-provoking tour de force that enlightens and challenges in equal measure, it stands as a testament to the multifaceted exploration of our imminent AI future.”

Ronald J. Koch, licensed professional electrical engineer


“In this wide-ranging book, Peter Bellini introduces the reader to artificial intelligence and its state of the art, providing the technical background on which to later discuss the moral implications. As a computer scientist working with cellular neural networks, I found the book very inspiring and comprehensive. It has furnished me with a framework to examine, in a methodical and constructive way, the moral and theological questions that arise in my field.”

Gaetano Petrina, senior principal analog design engineer for integrated circuits, Renesas Electronics


“In this provocative book, Peter Bellini delves into the world of AI and Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), raising imaginative and penetrating questions about their impact on humanity. Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and the Image of God offers an excellent read for those interested in exploring the intersection of theology and AGI, providing a glimpse into the potential of AI for shaping a brighter future for missional churches.”

Andrew Sung Park, professor of theology and ethics, United Theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio

About the author

Peter J. Bellini
Peter J. Bellini is professor of church renewal and evangelization in the Heisel Chair at United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Bellini is an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church. He has served in ministry in a variety of capacities for over thirty-five years in countries throughout Latin America, Africa, East and Southeast Asia, Europe, and North America. Bellini is also a revivalist, specializing in teaching and preaching on the Holy Spirit, deliverance, healing, and prophetic intercession and spiritual warfare.
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