Artificial intelligence
(AI) is increasingly shaping our world, making the relevance of many ancient
philosophies seem distant. People may find it difficult to comprehend our predecessors'
hardships during their lifetimes. Even people may find it difficult to believe
that great philosophers who have given us a wealth of knowledge once lived
on this planet. We will accept only those incidents and individuals whose
photographs or videos are accessible. We are fortunate to have documentary
evidence of our nation's father, Mahatma Gandhi. Otherwise, people would have
forgotten him. But even in this digital world where AI rules humanity,
Gandhiji's philosophy remains profoundly relevant. The core values that Gandhi
stood for—such as non-violence, truth, self-reliance, simplicity, and social
justice—offer timeless guidance for managing the challenges humanity faces even
today.
We can interpret
nonviolence (Ahimsa) in this digital era as ensuring the ethical and
responsible use of AI technologies. Gandhian principles are highly relevant
today as we start integrating AI into aspects of human life, be it healthcare,
economy, agriculture, or warehousing. As we indulge in digital war, Gandhi's
nonviolence principle prompts us to develop technologies that prioritize human
welfare and minimize harm.
Cyberbullying is on the
rise, and many people are falling victim. Cyberbullying fundamentally involves
the use of words, images, or exclusion on the internet as a means of violence.
Unfortunately, even political parties sometimes encourage such behaviour for
gain, which fosters enmity between communities—a divide that can be challenging
to bridge. By embracing ahimsa, individuals can practice empathy and kindness
online, refraining from harmful or derogatory comments. Promoting non-violence
in digital spaces could lead to reduced aggression and a more supportive online
environment.
Gandhi's emphasis on
truth is a powerful antidote to the deceit and falsehoods that often fuel
cyberbullying. Many online bullies hide behind anonymous profiles, spreading
rumours, lies, or misinformation. By fostering a commitment to truth, online
communities can reduce the spread of harmful lies and the fear that comes from
cyberbullies who manipulate facts to hurt others. Truthfulness can also empower
victims to speak out against bullying, creating a culture of transparency and
accountability. The community can prevent this by practising honesty and
integrity in all actions, including how we present ourselves online and
offline.
Gandhi practised
self-discipline and restraint, understanding the importance of controlling
one’s impulses. Applying self-discipline is crucial in the digital age, where
people can react instantly and sometimes impulsively. By cultivating
self-control, individuals can pause before responding to a situation online,
reducing the likelihood of lashing out in harmful ways. This can prevent the
escalation of conflicts and reduce the frequency of bullying incidents.
Gandhi’s self-reliance
(swadeshi) philosophy is highly applicable in a world where major tech
companies dominate AI development. It encourages nations, especially
third-world countries, to build AI capabilities and not rely solely on foreign
technology. Fostering digital independence and ensuring the use of AI in ways
that benefit local economies and cultures is crucial.
One of Gandhi’s
most enduring legacies was his advocacy for the marginalized. We must ensure
that these technologies do not exacerbate inequalities in the AI-dominated
world. We should use AI to promote inclusivity, reduce the digital divide, and provide
technology access for all, aligning with Gandhi's social justice vision.
Gandhiji was also known
for his simplicity. He envisioned that humans could have a sustainable life on
this planet by following the principle of simplicity. Gandhian ideas on
sustainable living can influence how we manage the environmental impact of
technology. The growing energy consumption by data centres, electronic waste,
and the carbon footprint of digital devices call for more eco-conscious
practices in the tech industry, aligning with Gandhian thoughts on
environmental stewardship. One major issue our present generation faces is the
addiction to digital media and various psychological and mental problems
associated with it. Gandhi advocated for a life of simplicity, which can be
relevant in reducing digital clutter and overconsumption. Overusing social
media, digital gadgets, and constant connectivity can lead to stress. Adopting
a minimalist digital lifestyle, guided by Gandhian simplicity, can help
maintain a healthy balance with technology.
With its moral clarity
and human-centred approach, Gandhian philosophy serves as a vital guide
for shaping the AI-driven future. Even in a world where technology seems to
dominate, Gandhi’s philosophy is highly relevant for building peace and
happiness in society and the world at large.
(The author is a dean at
Garden City University and an adjunct faculty member at NIAS, Bangalore.
E-mail: bijudharmapalan@gmail.com)
