Course
GPS10 - Anthropological Issues in the Age of AI
General Information
| Course Type | On Campus |
| Course Category | P7. Elective Courses |
| Description | Teaching Objective: Created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), human beings are entrusted with the vocation to “till” and “keep” the earth (Genesis 2:15). In this light, the Church has long emphasized that “this gift of intelligence should be expressed through the responsible use of reason and technical abilities in the stewardship of the created world” (Antiqua et Nova, 1). In the age of artificial intelligence (AI), marked by an explosion of information and profound technological challenges, we are called all the more to build a “civilization of love.” Pope Leo XIV emphasizes in his encyclical Magnifica Humanitas that each of us must “disarm our words,” rejecting the hostility and hatred that spill over from the digital realm into our physical realities, so as to build peace through justice. We must adopt the perspective of the victims, cultivate a healthy realism, and revive sincere dialogue in society. Finally, the Pope invites us to persevere in our prayer for peace, striving tirelessly to make it a reality both in our interpersonal relationships and in the broader society (Magnifica Humanitas, 214-228). This course examines the anthropological, ethical, and theological challenges posed by AI in light of Catholic social teaching. It aims to enable students to critically assess the impact of AI on human nature, dignity, freedom, truth, and social life, while fostering an understanding of technology as a reality that should be guided by faith, reason, and the common good. Teaching Content: This course will include the following topics: 1. The rise of AI and digital technologies An introduction to the development of modern technologies, especially generative AI and digital algorithmic systems, and to the ethical, cultural, and faith challenges they pose to contemporary society and to Christian life. 2. AI literacy: opportunities, limits, risks, and discernment A foundational introduction to AI, including the opportunities it may offer humanity as well as its limits and ethical challenges. This includes attention to the features and limitations of AI systems, the risks arising from their misuse, and broader questions regarding responsibility, truthfulness, safety, and the future development of increasingly advanced AI. The course will help students develop an informed and critical understanding of AI and its effects on human life and society. 3. The human person in the age of AI A philosophical and theological study of what it means to be human in an age of intelligent machines, with particular attention to human nature, dignity, freedom, truth, conscience, relationality, and the distinction between human intelligence and artificial intelligence. 4. Catholic teaching on AI and technology A study of the Church’s reflection on technology and AI, beginning with the foundations laid by the Second Vatican Council, especially Gaudium et Spes and Inter Mirifica, and continuing through recent Church teaching such as Antiqua et Nova and Magnifica Humanitas. Particular attention will be given to the Church’s anthropological and ethical vision, its concern for truth and human dignity, and its call for a renewed “wisdom of heart.” 5. Ethical reflection, dialogue, and pastoral implications Through real-life case studies, students will examine the opportunities, risks, potential harms, and ethical implications arising from the development and use of AI from a Catholic perspective. The course will also encourage dialogue among Christians, believers of other religions, and all people of goodwill. In this context, attention will also be given to the pastoral and evangelizing implications of AI and digital culture, including the possibilities they open for communication, outreach, and engagement with diverse communities. Teaching Mode: Lecture, Case Studies, Group Discussions and Practical Engagement with AI Tools, where appropriate Assessment Mode: Class Participation, Reflection Paper, Final Essay and Oral Examination |
| College Organization Structure | Holy Spirit Institute of Philosophy |
| Course Tuition Fee | 1380.00 |
| Course Combination | There is no records at the moment. |
