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F ORUM FORUM | EASTERN HORIZON 53

When From the negative prospective, the following
observations are concerning.

Buddhism • The algorithms designed to maximize engagement,

such as those used in social media, can exploit
cognitive biases, leading to addiction, polarization,
Meets A.I. • or misinformation.
Over-reliance on AI can lead to a narrowing of
perspectives, as people might passively accept
With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and the algorithmic outputs without questioning or
increasing pace of life, people are often bombarded exploring alternatives.
with information, overstimulated by social media, • The convenience of AI tools might reduce the
and overwhelmed by the demands of the digital inclination for deep, contemplative thought, as
age. While these advancements have brought people outsource problem-solving and decision-
great convenience and connectivity, they have making to machines.
also contributed to stress, anxiety, and a sense of • As AI takes on more roles in decision-making, there
disconnection. In this issue of Eastern Horizon, is a risk of diminishing human accountability and
we would like to explore how Buddhist teachings moral responsibility.
of mindfulness and compassion can be applied to
these contemporary challenges, and we ask our Ultimately the role of AI in shaping consciousness
three Buddhist teachers from the three traditions depends on how humanity chooses to design,
for their response. implement, and interact with these technologies. By
being mindful of its potential impacts, humans can
guide AI development toward outcomes that enrich
What are your views on the role of AI in shaping
consciousness and behavior, rather than diminish them.
human consciousness and behavior?

Ming Yee: AI plays a significant role in shaping human
Aggacitta: The potential role of AI can be both positive
consciousness and behavior by influencing how we
and negative, as suggested by ChatGpt below. Its
access information, communicate, and interact with
positive role includes:
the world. Its ability to personalize experiences can
enhance learning and decision-making but also risks
• Enhancement of learning and knowledge sharing
creating echo chambers that reinforce biases and
by educational tools powered by AI that adapt to
limit exposure to diverse perspectives. Moreover, the
individual learning styles, fostering intellectual
pervasive use of AI can affect attention spans and
development and critical thinking.
social interactions, as reliance on digital devices often
• Fostering wiser decision making based on more
leads to reduced face-to-face communication and
extensive and comprehensive data collection
deeper connections.
facilitated by AI powered search engines.
• AI-powered health tools, such as chatbots and
However, AI also offers opportunities for growth, such
therapeutic applications, can provide support to
as enhancing creativity and problem-solving through
individuals who may not otherwise have access to
collaborative tools. Ultimately, the impact of AI on
professional help, thus empowering their capacity
consciousness and behavior hinges on how we choose
for self-reliance.
to integrate these technologies into our lives, balancing
• By facilitating communication across languages
convenience with mindful engagement to foster a
and cultures, AI can promote empathy and
healthier relationship with the digital landscape.
understanding, reducing biases and stereotypes.