The concept of a messiah, traditionally understood as someone anointed by olive oil according to ancient literature, has evolved through centuries with various individuals leaving impacts on civilizations. The term "messiah" originates from the Hebrew word "Mesiha," which refers to an official ceremony naming a person as king, or "Malka." This historical context raises questions about whether modern technological advancements, particularly artificial intelligence, could fulfill similar transformative roles in contemporary society.
Music has been scientifically recognized as having profound effects on human biology and well-being. The American Psychiatric Association reports that musical experiences significantly influence overall human health. A 2022 meta-analysis review of music therapy concluded it provides beneficial outcomes for stress-related situations, suggesting music could serve as a form of redemption or healing for individuals and communities. As Thomas Carlyle noted, "Music is well said to be the speech of angels," highlighting its elevated status in human experience.
Artificial intelligence presents a complex dichotomy between potential benefits and environmental costs. While intellectual communities define artificial entities as those existing outside natural systems, AI's environmental impact has become increasingly concerning. The United Nations Environment Assembly has reported that artificial intelligence advancement negatively affects surrounding environments, primarily through substantial water consumption by data storage centers required for AI operations. Wesley Spindler of Global Sustainability Leadership reported that just one megawatt of a data storage center can use 25.5 million litres of water annually, creating significant environmental challenges as freshwater sources become increasingly scarce globally.
Despite these environmental concerns, technical innovators like Sam Altman of OpenAI proclaim that new AI technologies could bring prosperity to national infrastructures worldwide. This tension between potential societal benefits and environmental costs raises fundamental questions about whether technological advancement justifies its ecological footprint. The discussion extends to whether artificial intelligence could serve as a modern messianic force, transforming societies while potentially exacerbating environmental degradation.
The examination of messianic concepts, musical therapy, and artificial intelligence intersects at questions of human purpose and progress. While music demonstrates measurable therapeutic benefits without the environmental costs associated with AI infrastructure, the pursuit of artificial intelligence as a potential societal savior continues despite its documented ecological impacts. This ongoing dialogue reflects broader societal negotiations between technological advancement, environmental sustainability, and human well-being in an increasingly complex global landscape.
