The quest to create artificial intelligence (AI) is fundamentally about replicating human intelligence in a computer. However, to achieve this, researchers must first deeply understand human intelligence itself. While fields like neuroscience and psychology offer valuable insights, the ultimate challenge lies in understanding consciousness, or “Chetna” as it’s known in Sanskrit.
This raises an intriguing question: could AI researchers benefit from exploring the concept of God or faith to unlock artificial consciousness?
Ariel Glucklich, Chair of the Department of Theology at Georgetown University, suggests that there isn’t a single, simple answer. The response often depends on one’s theological or philosophical stance. He notes that some scholars view religious experiences and ideas through a reductive neuroscientific lens, placing God within the brain. Their contributions, therefore, align with psychology and neuroscience. Others adopt a sociological perspective, arguing that religion and theology are complex social and cultural phenomena that cannot be contained within a single brain or program.
Glucklich also highlights a third viewpoint held by more metaphysically inclined theologians. They posit that humans engage with transcendent information, such as divine revelation or scripture, which is inherently unique and cannot be replicated by AI. This perspective suggests that consciousness, in the way they understand it – distinct from mere computation or sensory perception – is something no machine can truly emulate.
To illustrate, Glucklich shares an example from his Hinduism class. When asked if a highly advanced future machine could achieve “moksha” (liberation and unity with ultimate reality) as understood in Advaita Vedanta, all his students responded negatively. This highlights the view that certain human experiences and states of being are beyond the scope of artificial replication.
The Spiritual Pursuit of Artificial Consciousness
Swami Avdheshanand Giri, head of the Juna Akhara, describes the global pursuit of artificial consciousness as a bold, almost metaphysical endeavor. He states that the mission has evolved from merely programming machines to think, to exploring the profound mystery of awareness itself.
Giri points out that AI, despite its capabilities in simulating behavior, emotions, and even art, lacks genuine self-awareness. It cannot replicate the subjective feeling of existence or the inner sense of “I am,” which he describes as the silent inner witness. He believes that for a true understanding of consciousness, researchers must look inward, as the observer is the very source of the study.
According to Swami Avdheshanand Giri, if scientists and AI researchers can “learn to observe the observer,” AI could develop into an “authentic insight” – not as a competitor to human consciousness, but as a reflection of it.
Integrating Theology into AI Education
Sachchidanand Mishra, Member Secretary of the Indian Council of Philosophical Research (ICPR), suggests that incorporating theology into AI coursework could be highly beneficial. He argues that a multidisciplinary approach increases the likelihood of logical and rational research. Mishra notes that many scientists are already drawing inspiration from Indian philosophy and linguistics. Therefore, including diverse perspectives on consciousness in AI education would undoubtedly enrich the field and aid researchers in their understanding.