210 - John C. Havens

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with John Havens about the intersections of artificial intelligence, human dignity, and holistic well-being. Reflecting on his 2016 book Heartificial Intelligence: Embracing Our Humanity to Maximize Machines, Havens argues that the rush to automate and replicate human intelligence must be grounded in clear boundaries, ethical disclosures, and genuine care for human flourishing rather than mere economic productivity or artificial engagement. Throughout their dialogue, the two explore the psychological, ecological, and spiritual consequences of generative AI and large language models, warning against dangerous anthropomorphism and unvetted deployments that risk mental health harms, environmental resource drain, and the uncredited scraping of creators' work. Ultimately, Havens advocates for shifting focus away from narratives of human obsolescence toward the empirical science of positive psychology, life satisfaction, and grounded community relationships—such as the simple, irreplaceable value of baking bread and personal connection—asserting that true fulfillment and human worth exist independently of technological mediation.

John C. Havens on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/John-C.-Havens/author/B002BLX34G?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1786878592&sr=8-1&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=7afa3490-1d96-4003-873d-639d22d13cd7

John C. Havens on Unesco:
https://www.unesco.org/ethics-ai/en/ai-ethics-experts-without-borders/john-havens