Artificial intelligence and human nature:
Stellenbosch Theological Journal March 31, 2025 Dr Andre Pieterse
The author argues that true consciousness derives from God's act of bestowing self-awareness, as depicted in Genesis 2:7, and that artificial intelligence systems or robots could never attain this unique, divinely given consciousness. The paper contends that AI's potential for consciousness is a bridge too far, and that current hype about AI may reflect a shallow scientific evolution that fails to connect novelty to the bigger picture. The author calls for integrating spiritual and physical perspectives, particularly theology and natural science, and emphasizes humanity's responsibility as imagers of the cosmic Christ in space exploration.