CONTEMPLATION VERSUS PRODUCTION: SAINT THOMAS AQUINAS AND THE RISE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)

Loria J.M. · Cuadernos Medievales (2025)

Resumen

The life of human beings can be understood through three dimensions: contemplation, action, and production. Each of these domains necessitates a specific form of knowledge. Concurrently, the pursuit of science demands the possession of that virtue which Thomas Aquinas termed studiousness (Latin: studiositas)—an excellence of character predicated on the capacity for leisure (otium). Following the philosophical framework of Byung-Chul Han, this paper will demonstrate how the evolution of Western culture has progressively transformed humanity into an animal laborans, thereby hindering the development of its deepest vocation. This situation is further exacerbated by the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), a formidable instrument within the operational sphere of ‘doing’ (praxis or poiesis), yet potentially a significant new threat to the flourishing of the theoretical life (theoria). © (2025), (Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata). All rights reserved.

Instituciones: Universidad Católica San Pablo