On Friday August 31st, 2018, our Shrine’s priestess, Rev. Izumi Hasegawa was in the History Channel to talk about Shinto and AI. Since in western countries, where AI is looked at with fear and at times for making weapons, but Japan sees AI and robots more as “friends,” rather than as tools for helping humans. Where does this sense come from?
(The sad thing is while narrator is saying “Japanese ancient practice, Shinto,” they are showing images of Buddhist temple, lanterns of BBQ restaurant and statues of Buddha. As you know, the giant bell and incense are only at Buddhist Temple, these statues are all Buddha and the lantern’s text is showing “BBQ”…. When you introduce Muslim, you won’t show images of Catholic church nor statue of Jesus, even sign of restaurant in Saudi Arabia, right? We need to educate Hollywood!)
HISTORY CHANNEL FEATURES THE SHINTO PRIEST
FOR SHUSSE INARI SHRINE OF AMERICA
Pepper, ASIMO, Paro, August 31, 2018 – Japan continues to be at the forefront of developing AI robots. Unlike in western countries, where AI is looked at with fear and at times for making weapons, Japan sees AI and robots more as “friends,” rather than as tools for helping humans.
Where does this sense come from? The Japanese feel that everything has a spirit. Their traditional customs revolve about coexistence and seeking to live in harmony with their natural surroundings. That mindset is reflected in the creation of stories like “Astro Boy,” “Doraemon” and “Pokémon” even though in modern days the Japanese seem to have lost touch with that ancient knowledge and Shinto customs.
In highlighting those distinct cultural differences, Rev. Izumi Hasegawa, the Shinto Priestess will discuss topics such as the importance their eco-friendly lifestyle and how to pay respect to nature, which is similar to the Native American culture. Bringing together these ancient customs and intersecting them with future technology is what will keep those traditions alive and a point of discussion for generations to come.
“One of the most important elements of the Shinto practice is seeking harmony not only between people and nature, but also among people within their families, communities,and world” said Rev. Izumi Hasegawa. “In today’s society, the need to strive for these goals has become more apparent than ever before. The Shinto lifestyle offers a timeless, harmonious spirit to draw upon as we work towards achieving a peaceful world for all living things.” May Shusse Inari be with you!
The History Channel special will air:
Ancient Aliens Season 13 Episode 13 “The Artificial Human”
8:00PM, Friday, August 31st, 2018
