Heidi Campbell, Professor of Communication at Texas A&M University. In this cutting piece, she explores the growing phenomenon of chatbots dispensing spiritual counsel. In her scholarship, she explores the relationship between digital culture and religion—specifically, how technology changes spiritual experiences. As the world grows ever more dependent on technology, chatbots are emerging as popular tools for spiritual conversation and discovery.
Religious chatbots are built to answer users’ questions grounded in religious doctrine and scripture. Campbell makes the case that these digital tools often “speak to us in the ways we want to be spoken to.” They serve individual wants and don’t encourage thoughtful wrestling with religious texts. This feature of these tools has led to concerns over the authenticity and spirituality of the spiritual guidance provided on such platforms.
One notable example is the website https://www.chatwithgod.ai/, which allows users to engage in conversations that simulate interaction with God. This site exemplifies the innovative ways technology is being utilized to reach individuals who may otherwise feel disconnected from traditional religious communities.
Recently, Rabbi Jonathan Roman has spoken to the role of chatbots in spiritual life. That’s why he believes these digital interactions are becoming a digital front door to faith for thousands of people. This is particularly the case for a generation that has never set foot in a church or synagogue. For this demographic, technology is their place of comfort and connection. Chatbots naturally encourage spiritual curiosity and exploration, which makes them perfect partners for Welcomers.
Accessibility goes beyond what chatbots offer in terms of providing convenient two-way communication. Second, they establish new forms of religious engagement in an age that is increasingly de-secularizing. Perhaps most importantly, these digital tools are incredibly accessible. That’s because they are uniquely positioned to straddle established religious practices, while being attuned to the needs of today’s audiences.