Brings into dialogue Girardian thinking and critical issues arising in the field of artificial intelligence for the first time.
As artificial intelligence assumes increasing prominence in our lives, a host
of questions arise, particularly if one holds a view of humans as inherently
social or mimetic, such as René Girard. Does the potential for self-awareness
in artificial intelligence come with mimetic desire in the way Girard claims it
does for human beings?
Sandor Goodhart and Thomas Ryba bring together a team of renowned scholars to
theorize artificial intelligence from a Girardian perspective for the first time. Chapters
present cutting-edge reflections on Girard's mimetic theory in connection with science,
humans, fiction, film, philosophy, and God, shedding light on artificial intelligence and the
consequences of the implementation of humanoid robots into daily life. Drawing on close
interpretative readings of films, including A.I. Artificial Intelligence, Ex Machina, and HER,
as well as literary productions, philosophic essays, and theological concepts, it offers a novel
approach to utilize the seminal ideas of Girard.
Setting out new challenges and insights, this interdisciplinary volume is an essential starting
point for students and scholars of Girard, mimetic theory, artificial intelligence, robotics,
film, philosophy of religion, and ethics.
