Theological Anthropology in Magnifica Humanitas: Implications for Religious Education in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22218727Keywords:
theological anthropology, artificial intelligence, Magnifica Humanitas, Religious Education, human dignity, imago Dei, moral agency, integral human formationAbstract
The introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) has intensified theological and educational questions concerning human dignity, moral agency, relationality, and the purpose of education. This study analyzed the theological anthropology articulated in Magnifica Humanitas: On Safeguarding the Human Person in the Time of Artificial Intelligence and examined its implications for Religious Education in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). Employing a qualitative research design, the study utilized document analysis of Magnifica Humanitas as the primary source, supported by selected ecclesial documents and relevant scholarly literature. Coding was used to identify theological-anthropological concepts and develop themes. The following themes were developed based on the analysis of Magnifica Humanitas: (1) the human person as imago Dei and the bearer of inviolable dignity; (2) artificial intelligence as a technological reality subordinate to human moral agency and authentic human flourishing; and (3) Religious Education as integral human formation for responsible participation in the age of artificial intelligence. Based on the findings, Magnifica Humanitas upholds human dignity as the center of technological progress and rejects the reduction of human intelligence and personhood to technological performance. Furthermore, the study argues that Religious Education should integrate theological anthropology, digital ethics, AI literacy, moral discernment, and relational formation to prepare learners for critical, responsible, and compassionate participation in AI-mediated activities. Hence, the study contributes a theological-anthropological framework that positions Religious Education as a vital context for safeguarding human dignity and promoting authentic human flourishing amid rapidly evolving technological influences.
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