AI And The Postmodern Apocalypse

2026-05-06 · Source: Data Science on Medium · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Philosophy & Ethics, Life Sciences & Biology · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, short

Summary

The article critiques contemporary postmodern thought, arguing that its rejection of objective truth and morality undermines the basis for objective human rights. It highlights a scene from "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles" where an AI is taught the Ten Commandments, contrasting this with modern societal trends that dismiss Judeo-Christian principles. The author, a geneticist and computer programmer, asserts that objective observation, like inferring a designer from intricate natural systems, supports the intrinsic value of human life and a foundation for morality. The piece also touches on the limitations of current evolutionary theories, suggesting that the complexity of life points to a Creator. Ultimately, it advocates for integrating objective ethics and reason, including religious texts and philosophical discussions, into AI development to ensure AI benefits humanity.

Key takeaway

For AI developers and ethicists designing moral frameworks, you should integrate objective ethical principles, including those from Judeo-Christian traditions and classical philosophy, into AI training. Relying solely on subjective, "tolerant" postmodern views risks creating AI that mirrors a society lacking a clear basis for human rights and objective good, potentially leading to unintended negative consequences for humanity.

Key insights

Rejecting objective truth and morality erodes the foundation for human rights and risks misguiding AI development.

Principles

• Objective observation reveals inherent design and value.
• Human life possesses intrinsic, God-given value.
• Morality requires an objective, not subjective, basis.

Method

To instill morality in AI, begin with foundational ethical frameworks like the Ten Commandments and Asimov's Laws, then expand to religious texts and philosophical works from Augustine to Rand.

In practice

• Discuss ethics and morality in AI development teams.
• Examine foundational texts for ethical principles.
• Consider the implications of subjective morality on AI.

Topics

• AI Ethics
• Objective Morality
• Postmodernism Critique
• Judeo-Christian Ethics
• Intelligent Design

Best for: AI Ethicist, Policy Maker, General Interest

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Data Science on Medium.