THE ROBOT WILL SEE YOU NOW:
Artificial Intelligence and the Christian
Faith
Editors: John Wyatt & Stephen Williams
SPCK. 256 pages. £16.99
ISBN 978 0 281 084 357
In this book, which shines the spotlight on artificial intelligence and its consequences, you’ll see – in a new light – how God makes all the difference in an uncertain world.
Paradoxically, technology makes us reflect on our humanity. What does it mean to be human? How can we truly flourish as AI encroaches on every aspect of society? These are some of the questions under the microscope in The Robot Will See You Now. Co-edited by theologian Stephen N. Williams and retired neonatologist John Wyatt, the book is an engaging exploration of AI – and how Christians should respond to the issues it raises.
But, despite grappling with pressing issues, this is far from a gloomy book: the golden thread running through its pages is the Christian hope of a new heaven and a new earth, highlighting the way that an awareness of that ‘big picture’ makes all the difference in today’s fear-filled society.
A Christian perspective
The book contains 14 thought-provoking essays, written by contributors from around the globe. Remarkably broad in their scope, they take us from Plato to the post-pandemic world. As they examine the ramifications of AI, they span every aspect of society – from literature to the medical profession to care homes. Consequently, there is a lively variety in style and content, but the whole book flows well, smoothly guiding readers through each subtopic.
Despite the substantial variety of content covered, the editors are quick to acknowledge that – due to the limits of print – this is not an exhaustive study of AI. For those seeking to research the topic further, several pages of resources are provided in the appendix.
When I attended an in-person seminar led by Dr Wyatt last year, what stood out to me was his ability to explain complex issues in a clear and engaging way. Similarly, in their introduction to this book, the editors’ passion for engaging a popular audience really comes across. Dr Wyatt and his co-editor have achieved an elusive balancing act in The Robot Will See You Now: although it’s a compelling and information-packed work, it remains a remarkably accessible read. If – like me – you have ever felt rather daunted by books dealing with science or technology, you might be surprised by this one. I found it gripping far beyond my expectations.
Given the increasing ubiquity of AI – whether in drone warfare, facial recognition, or the track-and-trace apps that many of us became familiar with during the pandemic – The Robot Will See You Now could not be more timely. It invites us to view our present decade, when many fear the future, as an opportunity to share the good news of the gospel. At its heart, this book is a faith-strengthening reminder of the ‘sure and certain hope’ we have in Christ.
