Exploring the Role of AI in Social Communications: A Reflection on Dr. Peter Monthienvichienchai’s Keynote Address
Dr. Peter Monthienvichienchai, the Secretary General of SIGNIS – the World Catholic Association for Communication, recently delivered a thought-provoking keynote address at the National Catholic Social Communications Convention 2024 in Batangas, Philippines. The convention brought together social communicators, media professionals, and Church leaders to delve into the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in their work.
In his address, Dr. Monthienvichienchai highlighted the importance of evaluating how AI can contribute to fostering authentic human encounters in the missions of social communicators. He posed a fundamental question: Will the use of AI bring us closer or further away from our readers and our communities?
While acknowledging the speed and efficiency that AI can offer, Dr. Monthienvichienchai emphasized the significance of staying engaged in the processes and synodal journeys with those we communicate with. He stressed the value of truly listening as not only a process but also a solution, echoing the sentiments of Sr. Nina Krapic from the Dicastery for Communication.
The concept of synodality, championing a collaborative and listening approach, was at the core of Dr. Monthienvichienchai’s message. He urged social communicators to leverage AI towards building community and solidarity rather than creating distance.
Additionally, Dr. Monthienvichienchai advocated for solutions journalism, which focuses on presenting both challenges and successes in reporting. He suggested that AI could aid in data analysis and trend identification but cautioned about the need to align these technological advancements with the purpose of social communications.
As workshops and panel discussions at the convention unfolded, industry leaders shared insights into AI’s practical applications in storytelling and audience engagement. There was a unanimous agreement on the necessity of human oversight and ethical usage of AI to ensure its alignment with the values of social communications.
The theme of the convention, “Authentic Influencers (AI) for an Empowered Church,” underscored the transformative potential of AI in the realm of social communications. Dr. Monthienvichienchai’s address resonated with the attendees, sparking discussions on how AI can be harnessed to amplify the mission of the Church and foster genuine connections with diverse audiences.
The National Social Communications Convention 2024 offered a platform for reflection and exploration, emphasizing the critical role of AI in shaping the future of communication within the Church and beyond.
