PRACTICAL CHRISTIAN ETHICS THROUGH BUSINESS EDUCATION
Indiana Wesleyan University’s innovative approach is focused on addressing important contemporary challenges. In the world of technology, artificial intelligence (AI) presents the Christian community with a range of questions about how to leverage its benefits while avoiding new pitfalls. Dr. Clark Cully, former Chief Data Officer for the Department of Defense, recently joined IWU as Technology Division Chair to help address these issues. “AI,” Dr. Cully noted, “like other technologies, needs to be evaluated through the lens of Christian stewardship: what is ultimately going to bring greater wholeness to individuals and society.”
Cully oversees the new AI curriculum in the DeVoe School of Business, Technology, and Leadership and is helping IWU explore how this tool can advance education. “AI is a tool for extending ourselves– amplifying what we are already becoming. It’s essential that our teaching be rooted in a foundation of Christ-centered character.”
Cully teaches Christians must remember that AI is a tool that presents itself relationally. “Generative AI is so good at interacting naturally, that we are tempted to shift from offloading cognitive burden to offloading our emotional and relational ones, such as AI as a cure for loneliness.” This risk can be mitigated if we’re intentional about using technologies for appropriate problems for which they are suited, not passively using them whenever convenient.
“IT'S OUR WAY OF CELEBRATING DIFFERENCES, KINGDOM DIVERSITY, AND CREATING A TRUE SENSE OF BELONGING.” -
DR. CLARK CULLY Technology of Division Chair, DeVoe School of Business, Technology and Leadership, IWU National & Global
Cully advocates that now is a great time to offer the world a clear and compelling Christian perspective on technology. “If we relate to our tools as people, we risk relating to people as though they are our tools. Technology worships efficiency, but learning, loving, and serving others may require that we slow down. Our attention is the first gift we give others.”
He remains excited about the many benefits AI can offer in higher education. “AI can be a great tool for creating personalized and relevant educational experiences relevant to the diverse needs of students. From language translation to immersive simulations, to compelling visualizations, AI can be a powerful tool for connecting, communicating, and collaborating with others.”
Dr. Clark Cully sees IWU as an excellent place for broader conversations about AI ethics, bringing together thought leaders from academia, the church, and broader society, “Together we can play a pivotal role in advancing the use of AI as responsible Christian stewards.”
This intentionality includes taking great care in how we use such technology to generate entertainment and engage our children. “The biggest risk from AI might be to our spiritual health, where we are always tempted to disengage into our own curated world and indulge in digital junk food, rather than deal with the messy needs and people around us.”