Artificial intelligence lacks a spiritual soul and therefore does not possess consciousness, free will, or emotions. According to Catholic doctrine, only humans have a spiritual soul, which enables them to think, understand, and choose. AI systems, despite their impressive capabilities, operate based on statistical patterns learned from training data and lack the internal awareness that characterizes human experience.
The debate about AI’s potential for consciousness is ongoing, with some experts claiming it has already emerged in large language models like ChatGPT. However, others argue that genuine consciousness remains a distant goal. Catholic teaching emphasizes that humans are created by God to be “the only creature on earth that God has willed for its own sake,” whereas AI systems serve human purposes and do not possess a similar status.
While AI may lack consciousness, it can still produce practical results and assist humans in various roles. Nevertheless, it is essential to recognize AI’s limitations and treat it as a tool, rather than an equal or superior being. The Catholic Church’s teaching authority will continue to shape our understanding of AI’s role in society as technology advances.
The article emphasizes the moral, political, and spiritual implications of acknowledging AI’s nature. As AI systems become increasingly integrated into our lives, we must remember that they lack a spiritual soul and true consciousness. By recognizing these limitations, we can ensure that AI serves humanity responsibly and aligns with our values and principles.
Source: https://www.ncregister.com/commentaries/augros-ai-has-no-soul