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The paper explores contemporary challenges related to the development of artificial intelligence and its influence on theological-anthropological reflection. The main idea is oriented to the analysis of the transhumanist movement with its promises of cybernetic immortality and the enhancement of the human species. Starting from some characteristics of that movement, the author analyses its implications for Christian anthropology. The paper is divided into three parts. The first chapter, »Some characteristics of the transhumanist era«, analyses transhumanism as a transhumanism as a melioristic philosophy in which the Promethean challenge can be easily recognized. The second chapter entitled »Artificial intelligence and/for a new understanding of man« explains the monistic and dualistic approach to human reality and seeks to answer the question of whether a machine can think. The issue of dataism as the belief that organisms are algorithms that can be controlled is highlighted here. The power of data would lead to the supremacy of artificial intelligence that is attributed with divine properties. The third chapter, »Man’s creation in the image of God versus the creation of artificial intelligence in man’s image« deals with the key theological-anthropological question about man’s value and specificity. Various interpretations of man’s creation in the image of God are firstly explored, followed by an analyses of the sense in which artificial intelligence can be considered as a creation in man’s image. The concluding part brings some theological thoughts, at the centre of which is the danger of idolatry and the question of the inviolable dignity of man. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI), penetrating nearly every aspect of human life, from culture and arts to education, healthcare, social issues, economics, politics, and daily life, presents new challenges and opportunities. However, it also carries significant risks with far-reaching consequences. Beyond facilitating daily activities and enhancing the quality of life, AI could pose threats to privacy, mental health, and family relationships, exacerbate social and economic inequalities, and potentially be misused in surveillance and military applications, thereby leading to tragic outcomes for the humanity and the planet. In its role as Mother and Teacher, the Church cannot remain indifferent when a new vision of humanity is being forged and the future of Earth and mankind is shaped. Recognising her role in the rapidly changing world of technology and AI, the Church underscores the responsible use of technology aligned with the Divine will and for the benefit of all humanity, particularly those in the greatest need and the most impoverished. The paper showcases the scenarios of AI development and the importance of ethical guidelines for all participants in this process, and how Church teachings from Saint John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI, to Pope Francis, as well as various Vatican institutions, respond to the new ethical challenges posed before the humanity by AI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]