A group of influential Evangelical leaders is urging President Donald Trump to take a proactive role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence (AI), while also addressing the ethical concerns that come with it. This call to action is encapsulated in a letter titled "Christianity in the Age of AI: An Appeal for Wise Leadership," which was released earlier this week. The letter emphasizes both the potential benefits of AI and the risks associated with "autonomous smarter-than-human machines that no one knows how to control."
Among the signatories are prominent figures such as Rev. Johnnie Moore, president of the Congress of Christian Leaders; Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference; and Doug Clay, General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God. Their collective message is clear: While AI offers exciting possibilities for advancements in healthcare and other fields, it also poses significant ethical dilemmas that must be addressed.
The letter describes Trump as the "AI President," suggesting that his leadership is divinely appointed to guide the development of AI technologies. It states, "As people of faith, we believe you are the world’s leader now by Divine Providence to also guide AI." This sentiment reflects a growing recognition within faith communities of the need for spiritual and ethical guidance in the face of rapid technological change.
The letter advocates for the establishment of a presidential advisory council comprised of faith leaders, ethicists, and experts in technology. This council would focus on ensuring that AI development aligns with human-centered values and ethical considerations. "We hope that the U.S. is doing everything necessary to ensure nefarious actors are unable to use AI to harm our way of life," the letter reads. The signatories stress that discussions about AI should not solely revolve around what the technology can do, but also what it should do.
Moore, who describes himself as both an "AI accelerationist" and an "AI alarmist," emphasizes the urgency of moving forward with AI development while being mindful of its potential dangers. He points out the need for the U.S. to maintain its leadership in AI innovation, cautioning against the risks of irresponsible development. "We have to recognize how disruptive and potentially dangerous this technology can be if we do this irresponsibly," he stated.
The letter also highlights the importance of educating the public about the benefits of AI, such as its potential to find cures for diseases and improve quality of life. Moore warns against repeating past mistakes, like the fear-mongering surrounding nuclear power that stifled progress for decades. He advocates for a non-partisan, merit-based advisory council that prioritizes ethical considerations over profit-driven motives.
The call to action from these Evangelical leaders signifies a shift in how faith communities are engaging with emerging technologies. As they seek to influence the ethical framework surrounding AI, they echo sentiments expressed by Pope Leo XIV, who recently commented on the challenges AI poses to human dignity and justice.
As AI continues to evolve, the dialogue between faith and technology will likely grow more prominent. This letter serves as a reminder that as Christians, there is a responsibility to approach AI development with wisdom, humility, and a commitment to the well-being of humanity. The future of AI may be uncertain, but with thoughtful leadership and ethical considerations, it can be a force for good in the world.
For a deeper understanding of the intersection of faith and technology, you can explore resources from organizations like the American Association of Christian Counselors and the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference.