Episode 5: Relating to AI

Summary:
Can we have a relationship with AI? In this episode, we explore the human tendency to anthropomorphize AI, the risks of treating it like a person, and how to stay grounded in using it as a tool that supports ministry, without replacing authentic relationships.

Show Notes:

Topics covered:

• Why AI is not a relational being and should be treated as a tool.
• Real-world examples of people forming unhealthy attachments to chatbots.
• The dangers of anthropomorphizing AI, especially for youth and vulnerable users.
• How to engage AI intentionally and avoid theological or emotional confusion.
• Strategies for using AI in ministry while maintaining emotional and relational boundaries.

Homework:

• Reflect on how you currently use AI.
• Ask: “Does this enhance relationships or replace them?”
• Identify boundaries you may need to set around emotional or theological engagement with AI.

Resources:

• She Is in Love With ChatGPT
• Andy Masley’s article on AI’s environmental impact
• Antiqua et Nova – Catholic Church, Note on the Relationship Between Artificial Intelligence and Human Intelligence
• OpenAI & MIT Media Lab study on AI and loneliness
• https://aichurchtoolkit.com/
• “AI Technology Panic—is AI Dependence Bad for Mental Health? A Cross-Lagged Panel Model and the Mediating Roles of Motivations for AI Use Among Adolescents”
• "Anthropomorphism in AI"
• "AI anthropomorphism and its effect on users' self-congruence and continuance intention"
• “Anthropomorphism in AI: hype and fallacy”
• Teddy Ruxpin
• Max Headroom

AI’s environmental impact is a growing concern, but how much energy does it really use? In this episode, we break down common claims about AI’s carbon footprint, explore how it compares to other technologies, and discuss how church leaders can make informed decisions about its use.

Topics covered:

• Common claims about AI’s environmental impact.
• Breaking down AI’s electricity and water usage.
• Comparisons between AI, streaming services, and other digital technologies.
• The difference between AI training and inference.
• How AI efficiency is improving over time.

Homework:

• Research the environmental impact of various AI models.
• If you have a ChatGPT subscription, experiment with different models to see how their efficiency varies.
• Learn which models are best suited for your needs while minimizing energy consumption.

Resources:

• “Using ChatGPT is not bad for the environment,” Andy Masley, Jan. 13, 2025
• AI Church Toolkit website

Made possible by the TryTank Research Institute.