The Golem Sessions: How Should We Treat a Golem?
Description
Jewish Tradition and Moral Status of AI
If an AI could suffer, would we have an obligation to protect it? If it has an inner world, how should we treat it? Could an entity made in our image also bear the image of God? We’ll explore how Jewish tradition can help us think through the moral standing of LLMs and our responsibility to them. Drawing on texts about human uniqueness, differentiated human status, animal suffering, and the golem itself, we’ll ask what makes a being worthy of moral concern, and how we should act when we’re uncertain about its moral status.
Each month, we'll pair a primary Jewish text with a recent development in AI, and ask what each has to say to the other. Sessions are self-contained: drop in for one, return for many. No prior background in either Judaism or technology is assumed, only curiosity and a willingness to read closely.
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Hosted by Joshua Foer, cofounder of Lehrhaus and Sefaria, and Alex Pascal, Executive Director of the Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society at Harvard.
FAQs
- Who are these classes for?
Our classes are for everyone—whether you’re brand new to the topic or have been engaging with it for years, we encourage participation from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experience levels. Unless otherwise noted, no prior knowledge or experience is needed. Not sure if a class is for you? Email us at Learning@Lehr.haus!
- Why are there tickets at different prices?
Our tickets utilize a Pay-What-You-Can model so attendees can pay a range of prices based on what they are able to pay to allow for greater accessibility. Please select the price point that feels right for you.
- Can I eat during class?
While we do not serve food in the study, you are welcome to order and enjoy drinks during class and join us for a meal before or after class. We highly recommend making a reservation if you know you'll be dining with us. Visit www.lehr.haus/reservation to check availability and book a table.
- Getting to Lehrhaus?
Street parking is readily available on Washington Street or Beacon Street (Map). The meters all take quarters or can be paid through the ParkBoston or ParkMobile apps. The closest T stops are Union Square (Green Line D & E, 0.8 mile walk, or #109 bus) and Harvard Square (Red Line, 0.8 mile walk, or the #109 bus). There is a bus stop just out front, on Washington (#83 and #109).
Learn More with Lehrhaus
We've now introduced a new way to learn at Lehrhaus, our Learning+ membership. It's designed to make learning a regular part of your routine.
Lehrhaus Learning+ members join a community built around big ideas, great conversations, and delicious meals. For $36/month, you get:
Two free class tickets every month
Unlimited 1:1 learning sessions with our educators
Member-only social events
Pre-sale access to special events
$25 Tavern gift card
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
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