Artificial Intelligence, Consciousness, Transcendence: a thoughtful Overview between Present and Future

Document Type : Research Paper

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School of Science and School of Engineering, University of Padova, Italy, School of Medicine, Applied Technical Sciences, University of Verona, Italy,

Abstract

In recent decades, artificial intelligence (AI) has gradually moved beyond the purely technical and computer-based realm and is becoming a central topic of cultural, philosophical, ethical, and even theological debate. Started as an engineering project to create machines capable of performing complex tasks and calculations, it is now becoming a challenge with fundamental questions connected to thought, understanding, and consciousness. Starting from a systematic introduction, the paper thoughtfully analyzes the distinction between strong and weak AI, including the main philosophical criticisms, the ethical and social implications of AI development, the problem of artificial consciousness, the Vatican’s thinking on the matter, the future perspectives for AI, and a final critical synthesis. In recent decades, artificial intelligence (AI) has gradually moved beyond the purely technical and computer-based realm and is becoming a central topic of cultural, philosophical, ethical, and even theological debate. Started as an engineering project to create machines capable of performing complex tasks and calculations, it is now becoming a challenge with fundamental questions connected to thought, understanding, and consciousness.

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Journal of Philosophical Theological Research

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 16 September 2026

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