Avoiding Autopilot: The Pitfalls of a Thoughtless Existence
Reclaiming Intentionality in a Technological Age
Last year I read Brian Christian’s excellent book, The Alignment Problem: Machine Learning and Human Values. I’ve found myself returning to one particular statement as the author describes the technological developments of the last few decades:
“It is as if the better part of humanity were, in the early twenty-first century, consumed by the task of gradually putting the world—figuratively and literally—on autopilot.”1
There’s a lot of truth here, and I’ve certainly surfed the wave of automation that has engulfed this period in history.
When I reflect on the current state of my life, I feel a pang of conviction as I realize how much of it is on autopilot—or, to put it another way, how little I think for myself.
I’m getting more done, but thinking less. And artificial intelligence isn’t helping.
Of course, one could argue that artificial intelligence could free up time from mundane tasks for more meaningful thinking, reflection, and prayer. But if I’m honest, I’m not sure that’s what’s actually happening. Instead, it seems like we’re simply stuffing more automation into the space that’s created in the name of productivity.
In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul issues the following encouragement:
“Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk—not as unwise people but as wise—making the most of the time, because the days are evil. So don’t be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is” (Eph. 5:15-17).
The rapid developments of technology—and particularly artificial intelligence—promise untold efficiency, but they can also easily lead to distraction and a penchant for busyness at the expense of wisdom. In a busy life supercharged by the opportunities that come with AI, it’s easy to lose sight of the importance of contemplation, prayer, and genuine reflection and, as a result, miss the will of God. There’s a reason the Lord calls us to “Be still, and know that I am God” in Psalm 46:10.
Believers: don’t let the subtle allure of running on “autopilot” distract you from the joy of resting in God’s presence, embracing meaningful reflection, and making the most of the intellectual capacities He has placed in us.
This is an invitation to resist the frenetic pace of our increasingly automated world and draw a protective barrier around those moments of quietness and solitude before the Lord.
If you found this article helpful, consider reading my book “The Church and AI: Seven Guidelines for Ministry on the Digital Frontiers,” out now! If you’ve read it already, thank you! Feel free to leave a review on Amazon and Goodreads!
Brian Christian, The Alignment Problem: Machine Learning and Human Values (New York, NY: W. W. Norton & Co., 2020), 12.