The Age of AI: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity

Reviewed by:

G. Connor Salter, Professional Writing alumnus from Taylor University, Upland, IN.

Title:

The Age of AI: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity

Author:

Jason Thacker

Publisher:

Zondervan Thrive (imprint of Zondervan)

Publication Date:

March 3, 2020

Format:

Hardcover

Length:

192 pages

OVERVIEW

For many people, artificial intelligence means robots on rampage to destroy humanity. In fact, the term covers a variety of computer systems, including ones most people carry every day in their smart phones. With many new developments in the field – from devices like Alexa for managing your home to drone tech that could eliminate the need for human soldiers – AI has the potential to accomplish exceptional things. However, some of the predicted changes – such as AI computers replacing human jobs and interactive sex dolls with AI brains – present big problems. Jason Thacker, an associate research fellow with the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, considers how Christians should respond to AI’s challenges and potential. As part of his analysis, Thacker gives readers an overview of what makes humanity distinct from a Judeo-Christian perspective.  

Thacker takes a fairly optimistic view of AI, arguing that Christians should prepare for the issues it will create but that ultimately the technology will not replace humanity. Further, he argues that given all the benefits which AI technology brings, Christians should be open to its possibilities. Skeptics would disagree with Thacker’s views, and at times his arguments seem like they don’t go into enough detail. However, Thacker clearly wrote this book for people who don’t have backgrounds in philosophy or bio-ethics, so any lack of detail is because he’s trying to make his ideas accessible.

In the end analysis, whether you disagree with Thacker’s ideas depends on what you believe AI will accomplish next and how you define concepts like knowledge, humanity and morality. The first question will be debated endlessly until we actually see what AI does next. The second question has been debated for centuries, with various Christian scholars taking different views. So, there’s room to agree or disagree with some of Thacker’s ideas while still being an orthodox Christian. In light of that, the best way to read The Age of AI is to do it while thinking, “given that there several different views Christians can have on this matter, does this book make a good case for its particular view?”

The answer to that question is yes. Thacker presents an orthodox Christian view of what it means to be human and what moral questions AI present, all while keeping his ideas simple enough for laymen to appreciate.

A solid, well-written perspective on a topic Christians need to take seriously.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5 stars)

4 stars

Suggested Audience

Christians interested in the philosophical and theological challenges that AI present, and how prevalent AI technology has already become in our world.

Christian Impact

Thacker gives readers wise insights into how what makes humanity distinct from a Biblical perspective, and therefore how Christians should approach new technologies.

NOTE:

Readers seeking other great resources on AI from a Christian perspective may enjoy Leonard Sweet and Mark Chironna’s chapter on AI in their book Rings of Fire: Walking in Faith Through A Volcanic Future.