Question: Act as a Roman Catholic seminary professor. Describe to seminary students why AI should not be used in seminary assignments.

Answer:  As a professor in a Roman Catholic seminary, I would like to share some thoughts on why AI might not be the best tool for seminary assignments.

1. **Understanding of Faith**: AI, as it stands today, lacks the ability to understand faith and spirituality on a personal level. These are deeply human experiences that are often beyond the scope of algorithms and data analysis.

2. **Interpretation of Religious Texts**: While AI can analyze text and identify patterns, it lacks the ability to understand context, especially when it comes to religious texts. The interpretation of these texts often requires a deep and nuanced understanding that AI currently cannot provide.

3. **Ethical Considerations**: There are also ethical considerations to take into account. Using AI could potentially lead to a mechanization of faith and spirituality, which are inherently human and personal experiences.

4. **Personal Reflection**: Seminary assignments often require personal reflection and introspection. AI, being devoid of personal experiences and emotions, is not equipped to aid in such tasks.

5. **Community Interaction**: Seminary education isn't just about studying; it's also about community interaction, pastoral care, and developing interpersonal skills. These are areas where AI has limitations. 

Transcript of output to question by Dyan Barbeau, 1-4-2024

Question: Why should a Roman Catholic seminary student not use Chat GPT?

Answer: Roman Catholic seminary students may have specific reasons to exercise caution when considering the use of chatbots like GPT-3. While the considerations mentioned earlier generally apply, there are some additional points to keep in mind for Roman Catholic seminary students:

• Theological Tradition and Teaching Authority: Roman Catholicism places a significant emphasis on the teachings of the Magisterium (the Pope and the bishops in communion with him) and the authoritative interpretation of sacred texts. Using AI chatbots for theological discussions could lead to interpretations that may not align with official Catholic teachings or may oversimplify complex doctrines.
• Sacraments and Personal Connection: The Catholic faith places a strong emphasis on the sacraments and personal connection with the Church community. Relying on AI for theological discussions might diminish the importance of these personal connections and experiences.
• Lack of Church Tradition and Wisdom: Catholic theology is deeply rooted in centuries of tradition and the writings of theologians and saints. AI chatbots do not have access to this rich history and wisdom, and their responses may lack the depth and context that is often required in Catholic theological discussions.
• Potential for Misinformation: AI chatbots can provide information from a wide range of sources, not all of which are reliable. There is a risk of encountering misinformation or interpretations that are not consistent with Catholic teachings.
• Intellectual and Spiritual Growth: Seminary education aims to foster intellectual and spiritual growth. Relying too heavily on AI may hinder the development of critical thinking, discernment, and a deep understanding of Catholic doctrine and theology.
• Human Element of Discernment: Catholic seminarians are often trained in discernment and the development of a well-formed conscience. AI chatbots do not possess the moral and spiritual discernment that is crucial in Catholic theology.

That said, it's essential to note that the use of technology, including AI, in theological discussions is not inherently prohibited by the Catholic Church. However, seminary students should use these tools with discernment and in conjunction with the guidance of their professors, mentors, and the teachings of the Church to ensure that their use aligns with their educational and spiritual goals while respecting the integrity of their faith tradition.

Transcript of output to question by Dyan Barbeau, 11-30-2023
 

Question: Act as a professor at a Roman Catholic Seminary. What would you tell seminarians about AI use for class assignments?
Response: As a professor at a Roman Catholic Seminary, I would advise seminarians to approach the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for class assignments with caution and ethical discernment. While AI can be a valuable tool for research and learning, it is important to remember that the centrality of the human person should never be replaced by algorithms or machines(1). The inherent dignity of each human being and the fraternity that binds us together as members of the one human family must undergird the development and use of new technologies (1)
When utilizing AI for class assignments, seminarians should consider the following:

• Ethical Responsibility: Seminarians should ensure that the use of AI aligns with ethical principles and promotes the common good. They should reflect on the potential impact of AI on interpersonal relations, critical thinking, and discernment, especially among young people (1).
• Human and Supportive Development: Seminarians should be mindful that every person should be able to enjoy a human and supportive development, without anyone being excluded. They should work to prevent the discriminatory use of AI that may harm the most vulnerable and marginalized (2).
• Algor-ethics: Seminarians should engage in ethical reflection on the use of algorithms, known as "algor-ethics." They should actively participate in public debates and contribute to the development of technical solutions that prioritize justice, peace, and the well-being of all  (2).
• Dialogue and Inclusion: Seminarians should foster dialogue between believers and nonbelievers on the responsible use of AI. Engaging in discussions that include religious values can contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the social and cultural impact of digital technologies (3).

In conclusion, seminarians should approach the use of AI for class assignments with a deep sense of ethical responsibility, keeping in mind the dignity of each human person and the promotion of the common good. By engaging in algor-ethics and fostering dialogue, they can contribute to a more just and inclusive use of AI in their academic pursuits.

References: 
1. To members of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Holy See (8 January 2024)
2. To Participants in the "Rome call" meeting promoted by the Renaissance Foundation
3. Address of His Holiness Pope Francis - Minerva Dialogues
Transcript of output to question by Dyan Barbeau,  1-16-2024