In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John speaks with Rev. Marian Edmonds, who works at the intersection of faith, values, and technology. They discuss their shared involvement in the AI and spirituality initiative at Harvard University, as well as their mutual interests in AI, religion, and the concept of "covenantal pluralism." Rev. Marian explains how she has been working to apply AI within religious freedom and human rights spaces, emphasizing the importance of diverse, interfaith engagement to protect the rights of all people. They explore the ethical challenges of using AI in these spaces, including the need for a "moral compass" to navigate bias and ensure that technological tools remain helpful, transparent, and aligned with human values.
https://www.marianedmondsallen.com/
Rev. Dr. Marian Edmonds-Allen works at the intersection of faith, values, and technology, serving with the AI & Spirituality Initiative at the Neurospirituality Lab at Harvard Medical School and as Senior Advisor for Moral Compass at American Security Foundation.
Her work focuses on the human-centered and ethical development and use of artificial intelligence, with particular attention to how emerging technologies can support spiritual well-being, moral agency, and human dignity.
A seasoned pastor and community leader, Dr. Edmonds-Allen brings decades of experience working across lines of difference—religious, ideological, and cultural—to foster collaboration grounded in compassion, conviction, and shared purpose.
Her approach is shaped by the principles of covenantal pluralism and a deep commitment to helping people live in alignment with their core beliefs, especially in times of rapid social and technological change.
She also serves as Executive Director of Parity, a nonprofit dedicated to healing divides and advancing the dignity of all people.
Across all of her work, Dr. Edmonds-Allen is known for building bridges, elevating conscience, and championing the spiritual and moral capacities that make us fully human.
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