All Brain and No Soul?

by Robert A Hunt

Overview

All Brain and No Soul? Real Humanity in an AI Age explores the profound shifts in human identity and understanding in the context of historical, scientific, and technological revolutions, particularly the rise of artificial intelligence. Beginning with the author's personal reflections on chaos and order in a changing world, it delves into humanity's displacement from the cosmic center through the Copernican Revolution, the evolution of modern science, and the redefining of intelligence and sentience. The narrative examines humanity's role within an expanding, indifferent universe and the implications of Darwin's theories on our relationship with nature and other species. It interrogates how technological advancements, like AI and brain-computer interfaces, reshape human self-perception and blur boundaries between machines and humans. The book highlights the dangers of abstracting humanity into algorithms and idealized digital personas. Through a lens of history, religion, and philosophy, the author raises questions about what it means to be human in a world increasingly mediated by screens, algorithms, and artificial intelligences, urging readers to reflect on the balance between technological progress and retaining authentic human connections.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9798385235223
Publisher:	Wipf & Stock Publishers
Publication date:	02/24/2025
Pages:	214
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.46(d)

About the Author

Robert A. Hunt is director of global theological education at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University. He teaches interfaith studies and comparative theology at Perkins, along with a doctoral seminar on concepts of the human in different historical, cultural, religious, and emerging contemporary contexts for the SMU Human-Centered Interdisciplinary Studies program. He is creator and producer of the Interfaith Encounters podcast, blog, and YouTube channel.

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

“In this profound exploration of what it means to be human, Dr. Hunt calls for our churches and homes to become centers of humanization—sanctuaries where we nurture the essence of our humanity in an AI age. By grounding ourselves in the human virtues of connection, empathy, creativity, and spiritual reflection, we can navigate the challenges of AI while preserving the relationships and moral compass that define what it truly means to be human.”

—Drew Dickens, author of Whispers of the Spirit: A 40-Day Guide to Intimate Prayer



“All Brain and No Soul? offers a nuanced and comprehensive overview of generative AI. It urges us to neither idolize nor fear the potential consequences of integrating AI into our lives. Instead, it presents a multidisciplinary context to help readers understand how generative AI can create value while acknowledging its challenges. Both the curious and practitioners will appreciate the narrative journey, grounded in Dr. Hunt’s personal experience.”

—Gary Brubaker, director, SMU Guildhall, Southern Methodist University



“Robert offers a nuanced exploration of what it means to be human in the age of AI. Through an engaging discussion on the evolution of human thought regarding mind and brain, consciousness, intelligence, and the soul, Robert provides both philosophical and scientific foundations for understanding today’s technologies and ethical dilemmas, reminding us of our depth as human beings. At a time of unprecedented loneliness and anxiety—especially among younger generations—this book offers an original and thought-provoking perspective on our agency in shaping a world that ensures the flourishing of current and future generations.”

—Eva Csaky, director, Hunt Institute for Engineering and Humanity, Southern Methodist University

Editorial Reviews

In this profound exploration of what it means to be human, Dr. Hunt calls for our churches and homes to become centers of humanization—sanctuaries where we nurture the essence of our humanity in an AI age. By grounding ourselves in the human virtues of connection, empathy, creativity, and spiritual reflection, we can navigate the challenges of AI while preserving the relationships and moral compass that define what it truly means to be human.”

—Drew Dickens, author of Whispers of the Spirit: A 40-Day Guide to Intimate Prayer



“All Brain and No Soul? offers a nuanced and comprehensive overview of generative AI. It urges us to neither idolize nor fear the potential consequences of integrating AI into our lives. Instead, it presents a multidisciplinary context to help readers understand how generative AI can create value while acknowledging its challenges. Both the curious and practitioners will appreciate the narrative journey, grounded in Dr. Hunt’s personal experience.”

—Gary Brubaker, director, SMU Guildhall, Southern Methodist University



“Robert offers a nuanced exploration of what it means to be human in the age of AI. Through an engaging discussion on the evolution of human thought regarding mind and brain, consciousness, intelligence, and the soul, Robert provides both philosophical and scientific foundations for understanding today’s technologies and ethical dilemmas, reminding us of our depth as human beings. At a time of unprecedented loneliness and anxiety—especially among younger generations—this book offers an original and thought-provoking perspective on our agency in shaping a world that ensures the flourishing of current and future generations.”

—Eva Csaky, director, Hunt Institute for Engineering and Humanity, Southern Methodist University

From the Publisher