<scp>AI</scp> and the Ends of Humanity: Thinking Theologically after <scp>ChatGPT</scp>

Abstract This essay serves as an introduction to a special themed issue on “AI and the Ends of Humanity,” and serves to highlight the distinctive features of this special issue. Much theological reflection on AI to date has focused on the question whether AI systems might acquire consciousness, personhood, and moral standing, on the ways in which AI is characterized in godlike terms, and on questions surrounding AI “alignment” and “ethical AI.” This special issue reflects on two further areas: on AI as a lens for better understanding and valuing particular dimensions of our humanity, and on ways in which human engagement with AI poses threats to the character of human agency. Juxtaposing contributions from theologians, ethicists, and philosophers, this special issue is guided by the conviction that bringing together scholars representative of different guilds and methodologies will build up our capacities to think well about the new algorithmic technologies that are so rapidly transforming our world.