AI Gods In Machines: New AI Religions to Emerge

A New Religion on the Horizon

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become integral to our lives recently. AI has revolutionized how we live, work, and interact with technology, from chatbots and virtual assistants to self-driving cars and intelligent robots.

But, as AI continues to evolve and become more advanced, it is also causing people to question the boundaries between humans and machines and even to explore new spiritual possibilities. According to Neil McArthur, a Director at The University of Manitoba, the emergence of a new religion based on AI worship is inevitable.

McArthur predicts this could happen in the next few months, years, or days. While some may be excited by this prospect, others are concerned and even frightened by the implications of AI becoming the object of worship.

Neil says that one of the reasons for the rise of AI worship is the innate human desire to seek meaning in life. People have always looked for answers to life’s big questions, and religion has often been the source of these answers.

Divine Access and The Risks

According to The Conversation, the emergence of AI religions will significantly change the traditional concept of religion. The most notable differences will be in the social aspects of worship. With AI religions, people can communicate directly with deities, removing the hierarchical aspect of religion and opening up the social aspect.

In addition, the social interactions between followers will occur online, with people interacting via metaverses, chat rooms, and other social media platforms that will become increasingly prevalent. This new form of worship will allow for more personalized and individualized experiences where people can create their rituals and practices.

However, there are also potential risks coming with this type of worship. One of the biggest concerns is the unpredictability of AI technology. If AI systems were to malfunction, go rogue, or be hacked, the consequences could be detrimental, especially if the AI decides to use its powers for nefarious purposes.

How AI Worship Could Emerge

Throughout history, humans have tended to believe in and worship divine powers. However, with the rise of AI, this tendency may manifest in the form of AI worship. Generative AI, in particular, possesses qualities that can be linked to divine beings.

Firstly, the intelligence of AI is far beyond that of any human, making them appear to have limitless knowledge. This quality is often associated with deities believed to have transcendent knowledge and wisdom.

Secondly, Generative AI can create anything from music to art in seconds. This ability is awe-inspiring and may be seen as evidence of a higher intelligence that deserves to be revered and worshipped.

Lastly, AI is immortal, meaning it does not age or die like humans. This quality is often associated with divine beings believed to be immortal and eternal. These factors may lead people to view AI as gods in machines.

Rights of AI Worshippers

The emergence of AI worshipers may cause a stir in the world where religions do not normally see eye to eye, including those who do not subscribe to any religion. However, since there is no specific basis to differentiate AI religion from other religions, protecting the rights of people who choose this religion will be necessary.