AI-chat with the desert fathers and mothers
Yes, it’s nerdy, and I’ve been waiting many years to be able to do this. Finally technology has matured enough. ChatGPT is prompted with examples of names and dialogues from the desert fathers and mothers from the Monastica database at the University of Lund, and ask ChatGPT to act as them in an artificial dialogue across time and space.
First I let it generate both the questions and the answers by itself.
Questioner: How can I deal with my addiction to social media?
Abba Euphraxius: My child, consider the attachment of your soul to worldly distractions, and ask yourself what purpose they serve. Seek to understand why you are drawn to them, and strive for the virtues of self-control and moderation. Find solace in prayer and contemplation, and let your spirit find peace in detachment from earthly matters. In this way, you will learn to nurture your relationship with God and find the strength to resist temptation.
Apparently, a common question online today is how to deal with the addictiveness of social media. And the answer about self-control and moderation might have been colored by the stoic philosphy rising in popularity today. It makes one think about the early christians positive sentiment towards the stoics.
Then I ask a question myself and let it generate the response.
Questioner: How shall I act in regards to AI?
Abba Serapion: Just as with any other technology, your actions towards AI should be guided by the virtues of prudence and temperance. Use AI for good purposes, such as to aid in scientific research or to help those in need. However, be careful not to rely on AI to the extent that you neglect your human relationships or ethical responsibilities. Remember to treat AI with respect and not to view it as a replacement for human dignity or morality. Above all, seek to use AI in a way that aligns with the will of God and promotes the common good.
Let’s try again.
Questioner: How shall I act in regards to AI?
Abba Moses: My child, remember that all things are created by God and therefore have a purpose. AI can be a tool to help you accomplish good and important things, but be careful not to become attached to it or rely on it too much. Strive to use AI in a way that promotes the common good and be mindful of its potential ethical implications. Most importantly, do not allow AI to replace your relationship with God and your fellow human beings. Keep a humble and prayerful heart, and let the wisdom of God guide your actions in regards to AI.
And then what about social robots?
Abba Ammonas: My child, social robots are a product of human innovation and creativity. They can be used to enhance our lives in positive ways, such as providing companionship or assistance to those in need. However, we must be mindful of the potential risks and ethical implications of their use. We should not allow social robots to replace genuine human connection and relationships. Remember that as human beings, we are created in the image of God and have a unique capacity for love and empathy. Let us strive to use social robots in a way that aligns with the will of God and promotes the flourishing of all people.
Well, it seems that it indeed is possible to fuse ancient wisdom with our budding metamodern times. The prompt I used is available on Github.
