Spiritual AI: Exploring the Possibilities of a Human-AI Interaction beyond Productive Goals

Abstract

The Human-Computer Interaction community has long endeavored to discuss technologies that go beyond productivity goals. We extend this perspective to the realm of Human-AI interaction to explore how AI could consider diverse user values, particularly in users' prayer experiences where minimal productivity goals exist. Through diary study, our research identified user goals and behaviors that contribute to satisfying prayer experiences. Then, we conceptualized four distinct AI systems designed to celebrate the identified goals and behaviors of the users. We presented these conceptualized systems in the format of a design workbook and engaged users in evaluating them. Based on our findings, we discuss the potential of novel roles that AI could play in human lives, such as provoking deep reflections or creating indirect communities.