86% of people want to address the ethical use of artificial intelligence; 6% seem prepared to do it
Grand Rapids, Mich., June 2, 2020 – Zondervan Reflective, an imprint of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, today released both new research findings, The Report on Ethics and Artificial Intelligence, and a new book by John C. Lennox: 2084: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity.
In April 2020, Zondervan surveyed nearly 1,200 pastors, professors, and other readers of thought-provoking content in an effort to better understand if thoughtful people have thought through Artificial Intelligence (AI). Participants were asked a variety of questions on AI—how it should be used and what role, if any, should ethics play in it.
The report coincides with the release of scientist and philosopher John Lennox’s 2084: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity. In 2084, Lennox provides a clear overview of the current capacity of AI, its advantages and disadvantages, as well as the potential future implications. In the Western world, AI is so deeply woven into our everyday behaviors and decision-making, often we don’t even think about it. And it’s advancing rapidly. The current Covid-19 crisis offers vivid context for how AI may shape our future.
Although AI represents an intriguing option for help in battling the current pandemic, only 34% of those surveyed said they are somewhat confident that AI is being leveraged ethically in the fight against the virus. Results also found:
- 86% of respondents believe that addressing the ethical use of AI is “much” or “very much needed.”
- 59% are “not at all” or only “slightly” confident that AI is being used ethically in the response to Covid-19
- 56% are concerned because they think the Christian worldview is not shaping AI’s development and applications.
- Only 6% show much confidence that they could constructively address the current problems and questions about AI.
The research also indicates that a trustworthy guide is needed to help traverse the tension between AI and ethics. 2084: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity may serve as that guide. 2084 offers a Christian perspective on humanity’s future with technological enhancement, bioengineering, and AI. It is a thought-provoking, controversial, and balanced account of the problems raised by AI and different conceptions of what it means to be human.
To download the research and learn more about 2084: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity by John C. Lennox, visit 2084book.com. For more information on interview opportunities with Dr. Lennox, please email Amy Bigler, Senior Public Relations Manager, at amy.bigler@harpercollins.com.
About the Author: John C. Lennox (PhD, DPhil, DSc) is Emeritus Professor of Mathematics in the University of Oxford, Emeritus Fellow in Mathematics and the Philosophy of Science at Green Templeton College, Oxford. He is also an Associate Fellow at the Said Business School. He is author of Can Science Explain Everything? on the interface between science, philosophy, and theology. He has lectured extensively in North America and in Eastern and Western Europe on mathematics, the philosophy of science, and the intellectual defense of Christianity, and he has publicly debated Richard Dawkins, Christopher Hitchens and Peter Singer. A documentary film entitled Against the Tide, featuring Kevin Sorbo and Lennox is scheduled for release in the Fall.
About Zondervan: Zondervan is a world leading Bible publisher and provider of Christian communications. Zondervan, part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., delivers transformational Christian experiences through its bestselling Bibles, books, curriculum, academic resources and digital products. The Company’s products are sold worldwide and translated into nearly 200 languages. Zondervan offices are located in Grand Rapids, Mich. For additional information, please visit www.zondervan.com.
Contact: Amy Bigler, Senior Public Relations Manager, amy.bigler@harpercollins.com 616.698.3514
