AI gets spiritual with a robot Buddhist monk

Scientists at Kyoto University in Japan have developed an AI-powered robot Buddhist monk.

Primedia's Digital Content Editor Barbara Friedman says that it has been trained in centuries of Buddhist teachings.

"It can deliver sermons, it can answer spiritual questions... it's known as Buddharoid, and it can speak, gesture, and interact with visitors – and it blends ancient philosophy with modern artificial intelligence."

Friedman explains that Japan's ageing population, as well as many young people choosing secular career paths, has caused a lack of people choosing to dedicate their lives to becoming Buddhist monks.

To listen to Barbara Friedman in conversation with CapeTalk's Clarence Ford, use the audio player below (skip to 3:33):