A National Seminar on Artificial Intelligence and Its Impact on Society
Vidyajyoti College of Theology, Delhi organized “TheoTech–2024” a thought-provoking two-day national seminar on the theme “Artificial Intelligence and Its Inspirations for the Pilgrims of Hope” on 28-29 November 2024. The seminar aimed to explore the evolving relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) and human development from theological, anthropological and technological perspectives.
The event commenced with an opening prayer and the lighting of the lamp, a symbol of enlightenment, by the distinguished dignitaries. The inaugural ceremony was graced by His Excellency Javier Manuel Paulinich Velarde, Ambassador of Peru, who served as the chief guest, and His Grace Most Rev. Anil J.T. Couto, Metropolitan Archbishop of Delhi, who was the guest of honour. Prof. Fr. Rajakumar Joseph SJ, Principal of Vidyajyoti College, welcomed the gathering and explained the dynamics of the Seminar as having two parts: First part dealing with the technical, and Rev. Fr. Nirmal Raj SJ, Rector of the College, delivered the felicitation speech. The Vice Chancellor, Very Rev. Dr. Stanislaus D’Souza SJ, President of JCSA, also addressed the assembly.
In his keynote address, Ambassador Velarde highlighted AI’s transformative potential, emphasizing its capacity to foster cultural and national growth. However, he cautioned against the dangers of excessive dependence on AI, urging for a balanced approach that integrates both technological advancements and human agency. Archbishop Couto echoed these sentiments, asserting that AI must not dominate human intelligence but instead collaborate with it. Quoting the Vatican’s Gaudium et Spes, he stressed the importance of scientific progress being guided by a faith-driven perspective that prioritizes the betterment of humanity.
The first day of the seminar featured three compelling paper presentations. Dr. Nimish Joseph, Director at Pienza Tech India Pvt. Ltd. and IIT Delhi, presented a detailed analysis of AI from an anthropological and educational viewpoint. He discussed how algorithms shape human behaviour, influence decision-making, and pose ethical concerns when machines are entrusted with high-stakes decisions that affect human lives.
In the second session, Dr. Shiva Kakkar, Vice-President of AI Adoption at Jaipuria Group and faculty at XLRI, focused on the educational potential of AI. He explored how Generative AI can revolutionize education while addressing the ethical and psychological challenges that arise with its integration into learning environments.
Rev. Fr. Nithin Monteiro SJ, a PhD scholar from XIM University, offered a more philosophical perspective in his paper, ‘The Sacred Discomfort in Befriending the Frankenstein.’ He delved into humanity’s obsession with superhuman abilities, drawing parallels between ancient mythologies and the technological advancements.
On the second day, Prof. Dr. Jacob Parapally MSFS, former President of ITA, discussed AI in the context of the Gaudium et Spes, the Pastoral Constitution of the Second Vatican Council. He affirmed that AI, like all technological developments, should enhance human dignity and serve humanity’s greater good. Parapally stressed that AI should be used as a tool to augment human creativity, not undermine human autonomy.
Prof. Dr. Job Kozhamthadan SJ, Director of the Indian Institute of Science and Religion, examined the promises and perils of recent AI advancements, including robotics and humanoids. He questioned whether AI could truly replace humans or if it would remain a valuable tool for scientific progress, emphasizing the need for caution as these technologies evolve.
Rev. Dr. Stanislaus Alla SJ, a professor of Moral Theology at Vidyajyoti, explored Pope Francis’ vision of AI, noting that while AI presents epochal changes, it risks leaving large populations behind if its benefits are not equally distributed. His analysis reinforced the importance of ethical frameworks guiding AI’s development.
A highlight of the seminar was the youth panel, where young scholars presented papers on various AI-related issues. Ms. Sanjana Sitaraman explored the “memeification” of Religions and its impact on digital hate ecology in India. Mr. Dominic Antony discussed the lived experiences of youth in the age of AI, while Ms. Milin Mary Mathew and Florina Harris examined the gendered impact of AI, particularly its effects on women. Sch. Seby Varghese SJ and Sch. Deepak Jans SJ focused on the potential of AI in combating poverty and social injustice.
The seminar provided a valuable platform for scholars, educators, and students to engage in meaningful discussions about the ethical, philosophical, and practical implications of AI in contemporary society, urging all participants to approach this powerful technology with wisdom, responsibility, and a commitment to human flourishing.
Reported by: Sch. Preethesh Misquith SJ
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