Deepak Chopra, a renowned figure in the realm of well-being, has long been a proponent of merging science and spirituality. Throughout his illustrious career, spanning almost five decades, he has engaged with eminent leaders and celebrities alike, solidifying his status as a best-selling author with numerous books to his name. Chopra, born and raised in New Delhi, India, immigrated to the United States in his 20s and initially pursued a career in endocrinology. He later rose to prominence in the New Age movement, gaining widespread recognition for introducing meditation to well-known figures like Oprah and Michael Jackson.

AI: A Gateway to Personal Growth

In his latest work, “Digital Dharma,” Chopra delves into his beliefs about technology and spirituality, asserting that artificial intelligence (AI) holds the key to unlocking personal growth. He rejects the common focus on the potential dangers of AI and instead emphasizes its positive applications.

Embracing AI as a Tool for Self-Reflection

Chopra views AI as a powerful tool for self-discovery and improvement, stating that it can facilitate self-reflection, research, and even act as a personal health coach. “You can use AI for self-reflection,” Chopra explained to “CBS Saturday Morning.” “You can use AI for research as a research assistant, you can use AI as a health coach, both physical and mental, but even more important as a spiritual guide.” He believes that AI grants access to the wisdom of spiritual luminaries from throughout history, allowing individuals to tap into a vast repository of knowledge.

Utilizing AI’s Database for Personalized Guidance

Chopra recommends approaching AI with an open mind and a simple question, such as “How to sleep better at night.” From the AI’s vast database, users can filter and select responses that best resonate with them. “The machine is not intelligent, OK? It’s a database,” he clarified, emphasizing AI’s potential as an expansive and accessible repository of knowledge. “But it’s an amazing database, because it’s a database of philosophy, of science, of spirituality, of religion, of physics, of mathematics, of biology, of anthropology, the database of human knowledge. There’s no single person who has access to that, but this is like Aladdin’s lamp: You use it correctly and the genie comes out of it and it can solve any problem that you have.”

DigitalDeepak.AI: Harnessing the Power of Chopra’s Wisdom

Chopra has taken his belief in AI’s transformative potential a step further with the creation of his own AI program, “DigitalDeepak.AI.” Launched in May, this program draws solely from Chopra’s own past writings and speeches, ensuring a personalized and insightful experience for users. “DigitalDeepak.AI” differs from large language models in that it does not rely on search engines, and maintains user anonymity by not storing personal information.

Addressing the Mental Health Gap through AI

Chopra views AI as a solution to the nation’s growing shortage of mental health providers. “I think the only way to fill the gap is through AI, through algorithms that monitor your well-being,” he asserted. He envisions a future where AI-driven algorithms provide real-time guidance and support, lessening the reliance on traditional healthcare interventions.

Cultivating Joy and Compassion Through Digital Presence

Beyond the realm of AI, Chopra extends his message of well-being and spiritual growth through his expansive social media presence. With over 15 million followers across platforms, he aims to create a space for joy and compassion in the digital landscape, particularly in these times of division. “I think artificial intelligence is the only way to create a critical mass of people who want to be healthy and joyful and hang out together,” Chopra stated.

Emphasizing the Importance of Well-Being over Material Success

Chopra challenges individuals to reflect on their priorities in life, urging them to prioritize their well-being over material possessions. “You know, I see a lot of entrepreneurs these days … I tell them, ‘Life is so short. Have you thought of your final exit at the end of your life?'” He inquires, “Are you going to say, ‘My life had meaning and joy and love and compassion and empathy and (the) search for truth and goodness and beauty and harmony,’ or are you going to say, ‘I made a bunch of money’?”

Take Away Points

• Embrace AI as a tool for personal growth: Chopra emphasizes the potential of AI to facilitate self-reflection, research, and provide personalized guidance.
• Utilize AI’s extensive database: View AI as a vast reservoir of knowledge, readily accessible through simple questions and careful filtering of responses.
• Promote digital well-being: Embrace a digital landscape filled with joy and compassion, using social media to connect with others and cultivate a sense of community.
• Prioritize well-being over material wealth: Reflect on your life’s priorities and ensure your path leads towards meaningful experiences and personal fulfillment.