Digital avatars and experimental generative AI: At your religious service?

Editorial

Authors

  • Dr Mara Steenhuisen

Abstract

This editorial looks at the development and application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in religious experience.  It is exemplified in the ‘use’ of and research on the reception of authoritative and respected religious figures for chatbot purposes and notably with avatars. Within this rapidly evolving landscape, it becomes essential to question how AI technologies might reshape the boundaries of religious authority and authenticity. Further, the editorial provides the introduction to the contributing papers in this special issue on AI and Religious Experience.

 

Author Biography

Dr Mara Steenhuisen

Mara Steenhuisen, PhD (2022) holds an MA from the Sophia Centre for the Study of Cosmology in Culture at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, Wales. During her MA research, she examined the cultural implications of the orb phenomenon. Building on this foundation, her subsequent PhD work at the same university investigated spiritual experiences related to orbs and associated light phenomena. The findings are detailed in her forthcoming book, Spiritual Experiences on Camera: Orbs, Lights and Luminous Beings.  She also holds a BHealth in pain management, having explored the relation between (altered states of) consciousness and chronic pain.

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Published

2025-09-26

Issue

Vol. 11 No. 2 (2025): Special issue on AI and Religious Experience

Section

Articles

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