With the rapid pace of progression in new technologies such as AI, gene editing, and advances in neuroscience, there's a vital need for more dialogue between religion and technology. Current discourse from religious leadership and institutions, and the theological voices contained therein, is limited, and rarely adequately addresses the ethical and moral implications of these emerging advancements.

A project led by David Zvi Kalman, a rabbi and scholar in residence at the Shalom Hartman Institute of North America, hopes to spur more proactive and creative conversations in religious communities on the intersection of technology, society, and religion. The project aims to do so through the production and dissemination of high quality public engagement materials, suitable for lay audiences, religious leaders, researchers, and journalists. In this project, Kalman will be supported by Sinai and Synapses, who has extensive experience with interfaith science-and-religion engagement, and The National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership (Clal).

Planned public engagement materials include a podcast which will act as a flagship forum to showcase the kinds of conversations that are possible; a multi-episode YouTube series on religion and technology; and three book chapters aimed at the general public on religion and moral problems in the 21st century. 

The project seeks to make progress toward three outcomes: 

• Creating a hub for discussion of religion and technology
• Laying groundwork for growth of public intellectual conversations about religion and technology
• Supporting a talent pipeline for future contributors and dialogue partners in the religion and technology dialogue, possibly including pedagogy settings.