Event Summary

On March 4, AEI’s Matthew Continetti and Michael M. Rosen gathered to discuss Mr. Rosen’s new book, Like Silicon from Clay: What Ancient Jewish Wisdom Can Teach Us About AI.

The conversation began by exploring centuries-old Jewish legends of golems, dybbuks, and maggids, delving into their humanlike characteristics. Mr. Rosen then transitioned to discussing his unique framework for understanding different perspectives of AI, introducing four distinct categories: “negative automatoners,” “positive automatoners,” negative autonomists, and positive autonomists. Through this lens, he examined how ancient myths could provide insights into contemporary questions surrounding technology, automation, and artificial intelligence.

The event concluded with a Q&A session.

— Kate Beinkampen

Event Description

In Like Silicon from Clay: What Ancient Jewish Wisdom Can Teach Us About AI, AEI Nonresident Senior Fellow Michael M. Rosen explores the intersection of ancient mythology and modern technology. As AI sparks fierce debate among policymakers, technologists, and philosophers, Mr. Rosen turns to centuries-old Jewish legends of golems, dybbuks, and maggids—creations that once symbolized human ingenuity and the dangers of unchecked power. By examining these myths, he reveals essential insights into our evolving relationship with machines and the need for ethical guardrails. He offers compelling recommendations on how to harness AI’s creative potential while managing its risks.

Join as Mr. Rosen discusses his new book and how ancient stories of creation and responsibility can illuminate the future of AI in today’s world.

Submit questions to Kate.Beinkampen@aei.org or on X with #AskAEI.

If you are unable to attend in person, a video livestream will be made available on this page.

Event Materials

Michael Rosen: Like Silicon from Clay: What Ancient Jewish Wisdom Can Teach Us About AI