Technology and Theology, as Artificial Intelligence Comes of Age

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Authors: Rafael Amo Usanos, Mario Farrugia
Cited by: 1
References: 30

Abstract

This article addresses the theological implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the broader Catholic theology of technology. The emergence of AI challenges the traditional theological accounts of technicity and human action and demands a renewed reflection capable of engaging current technological developments and transformations. The study first examines artificial intelligence through the point of view of postphenomenology, highlighting the mediating role of technology in human perception, agency, and world-formation. It then revisits the theological concept of the imago Dei, central to Christian reflections on human activity and technology, by placing in dialogue different theological interpretations of the image of God and their anthropological implications. Offering a brief bibliographic and interdisciplinary review, the article analyses how current debates on AI and the imago Dei reshape questions concerning human uniqueness, creativity, embodiment, and moral responsibility. A renewed theological interpretation of the image of God, integrated with contemporary philosophies of technology, offers valuable insights into the nature of human action and human nature within technologically mediated contexts. The article concludes that Catholic theology can contribute a distinctive and critically constructive perspective to current discussions on artificial intelligence by articulating a more dynamic and relational understanding of humanity, human activity and technological mediation.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Neuroethics Human Enhancement Biomedical Innovations Evolution and Science Education Ethics and Social Impacts of AI

Publication details

Journal / source
Religions
Publisher
MDPI AG
Volume
17
Issue
7
Pages
801–801
Publication date
6 July 2026
Language
EN