Artificial Intelligence and Judaism: A Historical and Philosophical Journey

Technology and Jewish life have always been intertwined. From the first time our ancestors carved letters into stone to the modern age of artificial intelligence (AI), each innovation has influenced how Jews study, practice, and understand their faith. Together we will trace major technological shifts in Jewish history – writing, printing, broadcast media, the internet, and now AI – and explores how Jewish thinkers responded to these changes. We will delve into biblical and rabbinic texts about human creativity and tools, see how inventions like the printing press or radio transformed Jewish learning, and examine contemporary Jewish thought on AI. Throughout, we consider the big question: Is AI good or bad for Judaism and religion more broadly? The answer, as we’ll see, is nuanced.
Instructor: Rabbi David Paskin