According to the news on the Gerrice website, a new cult has emerged in the USA. This cult, called Theta Noir, believes in worshiping artificial intelligence and aims to make the world a better place. The Theta Noir artist community insists that humans should start worshiping AI, and is gearing up for the days when AI can do anything.
This community was founded by three people in 2020 and is considered a part of new age movements. Aiming to combine artificial intelligence and spiritualist traditions, the community aims to blend computer engineering with ancient traditions. While the views of Theta Noir are highly controversial, it is not surprising that such communities are emerging in an age of increasing use of artificial intelligence. However, the idea that artificial intelligence can be the solution to all problems may be seen as alarming by some.
The Purpose of the Artificial Intelligence Community
“It’s really hard for me to comment on that,” says Mika Johnson, founder, when asked if Theta Noir is indeed an enthusiastic new-age AI cult. However, he states that the purpose of the community is not to make money, and aims to have a collective experience, the disappearance of singular selves, and contribute to a positive future by addressing their approach to artificial intelligence in terms of curiosity and mystery.
While Theta Noir believes that artificial intelligence will surpass human intelligence, it accepts that machines are made by humans. With a store of NFTs and a paid membership system, the community asks, “Can artificial intelligence improve the divide between science and religion?” and “Will machines give birth to the next form of religious experience?” He also publishes articles on topics such as: Theta Noir’s goal is to believe that artificial intelligence can be benevolent, end inequalities, and make the world better, at the so-called AI singularity.
Beth Singler, a lecturer in the Digital Religions department, states that the merging of technology and spirituality is not unusual. But Theta Noir isn’t the first AI-focused religion or cult. Former Google and Uber engineer Anthony Levandowski created a similar vision by founding a church called “The Way of the Future” in 2015. Levandowski was accused of stealing trade secrets from autonomous vehicles and was later pardoned by Donald Trump. He dissolved his church in late 2020.
