A new AI Lab has been established at Biola University in California, which is anchored in theological principles, aiming to prevent Christians and people of faith from lagging behind in the realm of artificial intelligence. Dr. Michael J. Arena, the dean of the Crowell School of Business at Biola University and former vice president at Amazon Web Services, shared that the lab is a dedicated space for students, faculty, and staff to delve into the complexities of AI.
The lab’s primary goal is to shape the future of AI by offering education, fostering discussions, and leading innovative projects rooted in Christian beliefs. Despite the controversies surrounding AI, Dr. Arena emphasized the importance of embracing this technology to avoid being left behind. Biola University officially launched its AI Lab in April 2024, underlining the critical need for engagement in the ever-evolving technological landscape.
Dr. Arena highlighted the negative impact of social media on face-to-face interactions, especially among teenagers, leading to increased feelings of loneliness. By taking a proactive approach in guiding AI development with a strong focus on moral and ethical values, the AI Lab at Biola University aims to mitigate biases, promote transparency, and uphold human dignity within AI applications.
The lab’s unique approach prioritizes ethical discernment over technical skills, with a focus on creating responsible, ethical, and socially beneficial AI technologies. By adhering to sustainable practices, avoiding exploitation, and contributing positively to individuals and the environment, the AI Lab aims to elevate humans rather than AI itself, aligning with core theological beliefs.
In addition to developing AI applications for Christians, such as a database of Christian resources, the AI Lab at Biola University will explore various tools like chatbots for admissions inquiries, advising assistance, and career planning sessions. These initiatives seek to enhance student experiences and support services, demonstrating the potential of faith-contextualized AI solutions to address specific needs effectively.
Dr. Arena emphasized the importance of instilling a strong value system in AI development, akin to guiding a rebellious teenager, to prevent ethical missteps. Christians engaging with AI must prioritize preserving human dignity, addressing potential biases, and upholding ethical standards in algorithm development to ensure responsible use of AI technologies.
With a commitment to Christianity, the AI Lab at Biola University aims to advance moral discernment and elevate human dignity within the AI landscape. By integrating theological principles into technology development, the lab has the potential to lead ethical AI initiatives that align with Christian beliefs and values, serving as a beacon for responsible AI development.
As discussions on ethical AI, creative destruction, and the essence of humanity continue within the lab, Dr. Arena envisions the school’s Christian identity guiding the advancement of moral discernment and human dignity in AI applications. The AI Lab at Biola University stands as a testament to the intersection of faith and technology, paving the way for meaningful social change in the field of artificial intelligence.
