Should AI algorithms be shaped by religious or ethical standards: The Malaysian Catholic Youth experience

Artificial intelligence (AI) has permeated nearly every aspect of modern life, including religion. AI-generated prayers, scripture readings, and religious apps have sparked debate—while some see them as inauthentic, many young people are open to these innovations. With youth aged 10 to 24 making up a quarter of the world’s population, their engagement with faith in the digital age is a crucial area of study.

In Malaysia, where Catholic youth comprise at least 24% of the Catholic community, the Malaysian Catholic Youth Ministers Committee (MCYMC) launched a two-year study (2023–2024) with 520 respondents to assess their faith journey and pastoral needs. The findings reveal a growing disconnect from traditional religiosity and hierarchical structures, echoing global secularization trends. AI’s increasing influence raises questions about its role in shaping faith practices and whether ethical frameworks should guide its development.

This survey aims to explore these issues, gathering insights on how AI affects youth faith engagement and the broader implications for religious practice in an evolving digital world.

Disclaimer

All data collected will be kept confidential and used solely for research and pastoral evaluation. No personally identifiable information will be shared, and responses will remain anonymous. 

This research is under the purview of the Catholic Research Centre, Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. 

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How confident do you feel using AI?

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Who should be accountable for ethical and responsible AI use?

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AI research and development is costly, requiring time, talent, and resources, which contributes to inequality and a digital divide

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AI is automating tasks and contributing to humans thinking less.

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AI does not have ethics and morals.

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AI does not have emotions or empathy.

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AI can influence my religious practices

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AI allows me to be more spiritual and less influenced by established structures

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Information from AI platforms is not reliable

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Generative AI tools and platforms can be your friend

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Which of the following, if any, would make you more comfortable with emerging AI technologies?

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 Which AI applications do you think are most relevant for young people?

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