AI AND ANCIENT SCRIPTURE

Sanjeewaka Kulathunga reads old religious texts to nurture modern ethics

As AI continues to reshape industries and redefines the global business environment, many leaders are turning to modern strategies and digital innovations to stay ahead. Amid this technological revolution however, the age-old teachings of ancient scripture remain surprisingly relevant.

SACRED TEXTS The Bhagavad Gita, Bible, Tao Te Ching and Dhammapada among others offer enduring wisdom on leadership, ethics, strategy and purpose, which are crucial for navigating the ethical and organisational challenges brought on by artificial intelligence.

The Bhagavad Gita provides a unique lens through which to view leadership and decision making. Framed as a dialogue between Arjuna (a warrior facing a moral crisis) and Lord Krishna, it explores the conflict between emotional hesitation and righteous duty.

Krishna’s advice, which is to act diligently without being attached to results, can serve as a compass for business leaders working in uncertain AI influenced environments.

In a world where data models evolve rapidly and artificial intelligence related outcomes are often unpredictable, his message in verse 2:47 to “perform your prescribed duties without attachment to results” encourages ethical focus, process quality and long-term thinking over immediate gains.

Such purpose centred leadership can foster a transformational management style that inspires teams and enhances organisational sustainability.

MORAL VALUES In the Bible, particularly the book of Proverbs and the teachings of Jesus, there’s an emphasis on moral values such as humility, trustworthiness and accountability. These principles are vital in today’s world where AI raises extensive concerns around privacy, bias and automation.

Proverbs 16:3 says: “Commit your work to the Lord and your plans will be established.” This reminds business leaders to anchor their ambitions in higher moral goals. Ethical alignment not only promotes trust but also strengthens brand reputation at a time when consumers and stakeholders demand transparency from tech companies.

Jesus’ model of servant leadership, most memorably demonstrated in John 13 where he washes his disciples’ feet, has influenced modern leadership theory.

Robert Greenleaf’s servant leadership framework, which is rooted in biblical values, focusses on service, empathy and empowerment – qualities that are increasingly important in managing cross functional AI teams and fostering collaborative innovation.

Chinese philosopher Laozi’s text titled Tao Te Ching offers a wisdom rich philosophy based on balance, simplicity and flow. Its principle of wu wei, which means effortless action in alignment with the natural way, urges leaders to adapt gracefully to change rather than resist it.

In fast-moving artificial intelligence driven markets where disruption is the norm, Laozi’s notion that “the soft overcomes the hard” speaks for the power of flexibility and gentle resilience. Businesses that embrace change with calmness and agility can better weather uncertainties than those that cling to outdated methods.

John Heider’s book titled The Tao of Leadership adopts Taoist teachings into modern leadership practices. They show how composed and mindful leadership can help teams remain focussed, and innovative under pressure – an invaluable asset in today’s tech centric work culture.

RIGHT INTENTION Buddhist thought as captured in the Dhammapada emphasises mindfulness, compassion and the interconnectedness of all life.

These principles are vital in ensuring that AI development reflects ethical consciousness. The saying “all that we are is the result of what we have thought” underscores the responsibility behind every line of AI code since technology ultimately mirrors human intent.

As corporations integrate artificial intelligence into their core functions, the Buddhist principle of right intention from the Noble Eightfold Path provides a guide for aligning innovation with integrity.

Companies such as Google have begun to adopt ethical AI guidelines focussed on safety, fairness and transparency.

Researchers Ronald Purser and David Loy contend that incorporating mindfulness into business practices leads to more responsible decision making, particularly when navigating the complex moral terrain of artificial intelligence.

Though the scriptures may seem far removed from the world of machine learning and automation, their central teachings of ethical responsibility, humility and purpose are relevant even in the digital age.

By harmonising ancient spiritual wisdom with modern technological advancement, businesses can create solutions that aren’t only innovative but also morally aligned. They can craft a future that values intelligence and humanity by bridging the sacred and scientific in a transformative way.

AI continues to reshape industries