What is Redemptive AI?

Applying the Redemptive Frame to Modern AI

Artificial intelligence will relate to the world in one of three ways - it will be exploitative, ethical, or redemptive. Why we build, what we build, and how we build it will determine that. Redemptive means to follow the pattern of creative restoration through sacrifice. It involves dying to self, renewing culture, and blessing people.

To first understand what redemptive AI should look like, let’s think about the path we don’t want AI to go down.

Exploitative AI: Extractive Dominance

In Exploitative AI, development is driven by strategy that prioritizes competitive edge and profitability above all else. Products are engineered to addict, manipulate, and extract maximum value from users, often compromising privacy and autonomy. The operations underlying these products are opaque, with little regard for the broader societal impact of AI deployment. Data is harvested aggressively, often without informed consent, and biases in AI systems are overlooked in the rush to market. Leadership in this realm is single-mindedly focused on market dominance and shareholder returns, viewing AI as a tool to consolidate power rather than serve the public good. The end result is an ecosystem where technology advances but at a significant cost to individual well-being and societal harmony.

Nobody wants to say they are building something exploitative, but we need more than words and good intentions. There is a strong current pulling modern AI in this exploitative direction, it will be the default if left unchecked. On the other hand, many companies and associations are calling for AI ethics and responsible AI.

Ethical AI: Responsible and Compliant

In Ethical AI, strategy revolves around responsible AI development. Systems are designed to be fair, accountable, and transparent, adhering to privacy standards and ensuring that algorithms do not perpetuate bias. Operations are compliant with regulations, and there's a concerted effort to maintain user trust through responsible data stewardship and clear communication. Leadership embraces a code of conduct that stresses social responsibility and ethical obligations, guiding the organization to avoid harm and ensure compliance. While this approach is commendable, it is fundamentally about risk management and compliance, maintaining the status quo rather than seeking to transform it.

We believe there is more. Crossing from ethical over the redemptive edge is our hope for this powerful technology and tool.

Redemptive AI: Restoration Through Innovation

Redemptive AI sees artificial intelligence as a vehicle for societal and cultural renewal. Strategy is rooted in the vision of technology as a means to heal, connect, and elevate humanity. AI products and services are created not just to function effectively but to enrich lives, bridge divides, and empower communities. Operations are characterized by participatory design, involving stakeholders in shaping the technology to ensure it serves common interests and reflects a diverse range of voices. Leadership is transformative, driven by a purpose that transcends profits and productivity, aiming to serve and sacrifice for the greater good. It champions a culture of innovation that seeks to restore and redeem the brokenness in society through the thoughtful application of AI. The focus is not only on what AI can do but on what it should do to foster a more just, compassionate, and thriving world.