Title: A call for Vedantic worldview towards human centricity in AI ethics

Authors: Raja R. Kanuri; Sharda Nandram; Puneet Bindlish

Addresses: SRH University of Applied Sciences Heidelberg, Campus Berlin, Sonnenallee 221, 12059 Berlin, Germany ' Faculty of Religion and Theology, Vrije University, Badenpowelweg 71, 1069LC Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Nyenrode Business University, Straatweg 25, 3621 BG Breukelen, The Netherlands ' Faculty of Religion and Theology, Vrije University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Abstract: Emphasising on the problem of quantified self and artificial intelligence (AI) systems, this literature review brings ancient Vedanta philosophy and AI ethics together. It reveals that the historic and ongoing efforts in AI ethics fall short in addressing deeper ontological and spiritual dimensions as outlined in Vedanta philosophy. Specifically, prevailing notions of human autonomy and accountability in AI systems overlook the disruption of inner calm and self-realisation processes essential to spirituality by such technologies. It also notes the inadequacy of existing mechanisms to audit the impact of AI on the spiritual well-being of individuals. Proposing a new bottom-up approach, it highlights the value of integrating Vedantic concepts such as the Gunas and Doshas to AI ethics. Developers, leaders, scientists and policymakers who are engaged with human centric AI systems and willing to extend the applicability of spirituality from businesses to technological artefact design may find it helpful.

Keywords: Vedantic worldview; Hindu perspectives to AI ethics; self-knowledge; AI systems; spirituality; human-centred AI; AI ethics; quantified self; bottom-up approach to AI ethics; AI systems as objects; trustworthy AI; technology ethics.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTTC.2025.149733

International Journal of Technology Transfer and Commercialisation, 2025 Vol.21 No.4, pp.306 - 326

Received: 19 Apr 2025
Accepted: 01 Jun 2025
Published online: 11 Nov 2025 *

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