Optimistic or Overwhelmed? Engaging Tech in an Age of Optimisation
2026 Oration Abstract
We live in an era of accelerated technological change. Generative artificial intelligence is reshaping our personal and collective lives, while emerging technologies promise futures marked by virtual worlds, brain implants, and even extraterrestrial travel.
At the same time, technologies increasingly collect personal data in pursuit of optimisation and performance. Many find themselves oscillating between optimism and overwhelm, awe and anxiety.
In the spirit of Mary Aikenhead, this oration aimed to explore how we might engage with emerging technologies in service of our mission: the flourishing of every human person.
Feedback about the Oration:
The Oration event was wonderfully well organised and friendly, it was a delight to see attendees at the reception mixing with such a positive atmosphere, compliments to Charlie and Franks delicious catering, and most importantly the Oration by Associate Professor Victoria Lorrimar was stimulating, thought provoking, and covered the ethical implications of emerging AI.
It was easy to access and the presentation was interesting.
- It was inspirational, exhilarating and grounded!
Victoria was energetic in her presentation, presented lots of facts using share screen but referred to human dignity and truth in Humanitas Magnifica, overriding all the technological advances.
The speaker was very relatable and knowledgeable and the venue was excellent.
Great food. Great community. Excellent venue. Organised. The 'extra' bits - words from Richard and Penny - had gravitas. Thank you.
Excellent choice of speaker who offered a thoughtful presentation in a very engaging way. Enjoyed meeting a large variety of colleagues, and many individuals connected to MAM, the universities and St Vincent's Health facilities. Wonderful venue.
Great speaker, good networking and delicious food
The Oration event was wonderfully well organised and friendly, it was a delight to see attendees at the reception mixing with such a positive atmosphere, compliments to Charlie and Franks delicious catering, and most importantly the Oration by Associate Professor Victoria Lorrimar was stimulating, thought provoking, and covered the ethical implications of emerging AI.
Well organised. Staff made us feel welcomed.
It was a terrific gathering and the presentation was exceptional.
Brilliant speaker, very impressive wholistic and all encompassing presentation on a very broad and complex subject.
Meeting so many wonderful men & women…easy conversations…ease to meet as many as possible…the venue excellent…”Tucker fantastic”!!
Fantastic speaker, great venue
Excellent presenter who was engaging and thought provoking and I am still reflecting on all the dimensions raised in the presentation.
Down to earth. Very informative and we need to keep hopeful and informed. Thank you
Speaker choice was excellent. Well presented and so engaging. The technology worked really well too.
What an inspiring evening at the 2026 Venerable Mary Aikenhead Oration with Professor Victoria Lorrimar from the University of Notre Dame Australia’s Centre for Technology and Human Futures. Drawing on Catholic social thought, Professor Lorrimar invited us to reflect on a profound question:
How can we advance human flourishing and foster right relationships in a world where technology—and the pursuit of optimisation—is reshaping what it means to be human?
She challenged leaders across our Catholic ministries to:
- Focus not only on how AI is used, but also on how it is developed and governed, ensuring ethical, values-based KPIs guide the technologies we adopt.
- Look beyond measures of efficiency and productivity, asking instead whether technology helps us build more authentic relationships and live in deeper communion with one another and with our common home.
- Use our collective influence to ensure the technologies that support our mission are not built on exploitative supply chains or unjust labour practices.
Professor Lorrimar concluded with Pope Leo's message of hope in Magnifica Humanitas: we all have a role to play in building a civilisation of love, even in the digital age.
Her message resonates deeply with the vision of Mary Aikenhead, who called us to "find the need and respond to it." As technology transforms our world, that calling remains as relevant as ever. Our challenge is not simply to embrace innovation, but to ensure it always serves human dignity, strengthens relationships, and advances the common good.
A timely and inspiring reminder that the future of AI is not only a technical challenge—it is a profoundly moral and ethical one.
Orator
Associate Professor Victoria Lorrimar
DPhil (Oxon), GradDipPsych, MDiv, BSc (Hons)
Director, Centre of Technology and Human Futures
University of Notre Dame Australia (Fremantle)
A. Prof Victoria Lorrimar is Director of the Centre for Technology and Human Futures within the Institute for Ethics and Society at the University of Notre Dame Australia and is based in Fremantle, Western Australia.
Her research explores the social and ethical implications of AI and emerging technologies for augmenting human biology and capacities. She is particularly interested in the interplay between technology and spirituality, and the growing impact of algorithms and digital culture in self-determination and visions of human being.
She is the author of Human Technological Enhancement and Theological Anthropology (Cambridge University Press, 2022), Series Editor for Cambridge Elements in Religion and Technology and currently co-investigator for several research grants related to technology, religion and contemporary society.
