Although Pope Leo XIV has warned that artificial intelligence poses a threat to human dignity, concerns regarding AI are not limited to the devoutly faithful. David Durman, a nontheistic Humanist and administrator at the University of Kentucky, has successfully secured a religious exemption allowing him to abstain from using AI in his workplace.
"Humanism is a collection of beliefs about the human experience and how humans interact with the world," Durman explained to TechCrunch. He described it as focusing on human well-being and flourishing, both individually and collectively, while encouraging people to improve their own welfare and that of others.
As AI popularity grew, Durman contacted the American Humanist Association (AHA) to explore legal protections against mandatory AI usage. He believes that using the technology contradicts his personal beliefs.
"The way we become moral actors for ourselves and for others is through the active application of our minds, and the diminishing of that [through AI use] is going to necessarily have a negative impact on our ability to do so," he stated, expressing concern that AI reliance could hinder critical thinking.
In a statement released by the AHA, Durman argued that AI is disrupting livelihoods, causing environmental harm, and stealing human creativity, which threatens cultural elements like art and literature that sustain society.
Humanism is distinct from anti-religious views but appeals to skeptics of gods who seek a scientific and moral framework. Alexandria Huiskens, Staff Attorney at the AHA, noted that fears regarding AI and human dignity span various faiths and traditions, ensuring that these groups are legally protected against mandatory AI use at work.
Durman is the first Humanist to receive workplace accommodations for abstaining from AI, and one of the few to publicly pursue such protections. He was inspired by Erin Maus, a Unitarian Universalist software engineer who had previously secured similar rights.
"For me, this was about me and my convictions," Durman shared. "I’m obviously not trying to tell people how to think or feel… But I do hope that it encourages people who have similar concerns to pursue their beliefs to the best of their ability where they feel is the most appropriate."
Jay Blanton, a spokesperson for the University of Kentucky, confirmed that the university reviews religious accommodation requests on a case-by-case basis. He stated that an accommodation was provided that allowed Durman to continue performing essential job functions without using AI.
Maus's situation is unique because few software engineers write code without AI assistance today. However, Durman's administrative role did not strictly require AI use, though he sought protection in anticipation of potential future mandates from colleagues or leadership. He expressed hope that others with similar concerns would seek resolutions.
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