January 16, 2026Information0 citationsOpen Access
View Full PaperFlourishing Considerations for AI
Key Points
- The aim is to identify how AI can be oriented towards promoting human flourishing in society.
- Discussed five sets of considerations related to AI and flourishing.
- Examined outputs of large language models.
- Analyzed specific design aspects of AI products.
- Explored user engagement with AI technologies.
- Considered impacts on human knowledge and self-realization.
- Highlighted the need for principled considerations in AI development.
- Argued that AI can either support or hinder human flourishing.
- Identified key areas that require serious attention to maximize positive effects.
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming countless aspects of society, including possibly even who we are as persons. AI technologies may affect our flourishing for good or for ill. In this paper, we put forward principled considerations concerning flourishing and AI that are oriented towards ensuring AI technologies are conducive to human flourishing, rather than impeding it. The considerations are intended to help guide discussions around the development of, and engagement with, AI technologies so as to orient them towards the promotion of individual and societal flourishing. Five sets of considerations around flourishing and AI are discussed concerning: (i) the output provided by large language models; (ii) the specific AI product design; (iii) our engagement with those products; (iv) the effects this is having on human knowledge; and (v) the effects this is having on the self-realization of the human person. While not exhaustive, it is argued that each of these sets of considerations must be taken seriously if these technologies are to help promote, rather than impede, flourishing. We suggest that we should ultimately frame all of our thinking on AI technologies around flourishing.