John Lennox's summary of the state-of-the-art in AI was well-presented and easy to understand. Lennox makes a crucial distinction between AI tools (such as machine learning) and AGI: Artificial General Intelligence. AGI is what Lennox sees as not only technically implausible, but also an affort to the biblical view of anthropology.

Much of the book is devoted to responding to Yuval Harari's claims in the books 'Sapiens' and 'Homo Deus'. Perhaps too much. Lennox's theological perspectives in response to this idea were valuable, but he gets too "in the weeds" theologically for his non-Christian readers to remain engaged.

Lennox employs Genesis 1-2 to demonstrate how the Judeo-Christian narrative surrounding human origins indicates that human beings are imbued not only with intelligence, but also with a consciousness that transcends material reality. Although much of his argument is sound, Lennox seems to argue for a Platonic dualism, dividing body from soul/spirit, and appears to impose this onto the text of Genesis 1-2. However, there is not sufficient evidence to indicate that the biblical author(s) had such a dualistic framework, and Lennox himself mentions that the Hebrew "nephesh" can be translated as "soul", "person", or "self".

Some of Lennox's concerns regarding the theological implications of "Homo Deus" appear to hinge on a literalistic view of Genesis 3. Lennox does not explicitly mention how differing views on the Historical Adam affect his argument, and his personal view is likely spelled out in his other work, "Seven Days that Divide the World."

Lennox seems to affirm the popular "go to heaven when you die" theology that is prevalent in Christian circles, before he later talks about the final eschatological vision of the New Heavens and New Earth. By separating the "already" and the "not yet" in such a way, Lennox slightly minimizes the importance of the Christian role in "bringing the Kingdom to earth". In his effort to discount Postmillennial and Amillenial views, Lennox minimizes the aspect of the biblical narrative that places hope in the recreation and rejuvenation of the earth – first through the work of the Church, and later through God's climactic eschaton.

Lennox responds to the idea of Homo Deus by fixating on a biblical vision that hinges on a particular eschatological view. By dogmatically endorsing pre-millennialism, Lennox alienates Christian readers with alternative eschatological frameworks.

The closing chapter portrays a magnificent vision of the story of the Gospel as it transforms those who follow Jesus through the work of the Holy Spirit, and will one day "upgrade" them to eternal citizens of God's Kingdom (cf. Harari's "Homo Deus").

2084 by John C Lennox

I was given a copy of this book for review.

Mr. Lennox takes the time to explain what AI is and the different types in a manner that easy to understand. Many examples are given that show the abilities of AI and also what they are not able to complete. Mr. Lennox goes on to explain how AI can never be human, as we are created from God.

This book explains in detail the manner of AI, its possible uses and the vast difference between man and machine.

I just reviewed 2084 by John C. Lennox. #2084 #NetGalley

Interesting take on the subject of AI. Most of what I have read takes the topic from a naturalistic standpoint, so this was a refreshing perspective. Some people might find the mix of future technological problems and Christian theology strange, but it makes perfect sense when you consider the challenges we are really facing.

Fundamentally, most of the questions raised by AI are ethical and moral: Is the human problem of death purely physical, or are there moral and spiritual elements as well? Is a benevolent AI-ruler led utopia possible? Can we eliminate evil through surveillance? What does our future look like? These are all issues we must deal with at the level of worldview—and John Lennox does a great job making that case. In many ways, the scenarios many AI proponents envision is just another updated attempt at humanity’s desire to play God.

The first half emphasizes different AI accomplishments and possible scenarios, while the second half connects the same ideas to the Biblical concepts of human origins and the future. Really interesting and thought-provoking read.

Lennox takes an honest at the current state of AI development and how Christians should respond to things like the transhumanist movement which present a view of human nature far outside what the Bible teaches. His arguments are intelligently made, his research is very well-done (taking the time to look at specific things that transhumanist and atheist writers have recently written on the subject and then deconstructing their ideas). All told, a wonderful book on the theological implications of AI.