“Science, Religion, and Society: AI and the Search for the Sacred” An Interdisciplinary Conversation

The Departments of Sociology and Criminology and Religious Studies warmly invite you to attend “Science, Religion, and Society: AI and the Search for the Sacred” on November 11, 5-6:30 p.m., in the Christopher Center Library (CLR) 205. Refreshments will be served!

This interdisciplinary conversation brings together a social scientist, a religious studies and theology scholar, and a science and technology expert to explore the timely issue of generative AI from the perspectives of these fields.

Through presentations and conversation, Robert Phillips, Kristel Clayville, and Sami Khorbotly will take up the timely question of what happens when people turn to artificial intelligence for spiritual guidance, reflection, or even divination. From apps that let users “chat with Jesus” to AI programs that generate prayers, horoscopes, or moral advice, technology is starting to take on roles once filled by faith communities and religious leaders. Bringing together perspectives from anthropology, religious ethics, and engineering, our speakers will discuss how AI actually works and how people are using these tools, what kinds of meaning they find in them, and whether AI poses a challenge, a complement, or both, to ideas of faith, the sacred, and society.

The event is designed for Valparaiso University students, faculty, and staff, as well as members of the wider Valparaiso community. It is VUE approved.

We thank the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Engineering, Christ College, VUE, and The Rifai Institute for their support of this event.

Sincerely,

Margarita Rayzberg, Ph.D.
Ossama Abdelgawwad, Ph.D.