1. Introduction

The QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies is committed to maintaining high academic integrity and scholarly excellence. As part of its mission, the journal acknowledges the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly generative AI, in academic research and publishing. This policy outlines how generative AI may be used responsibly and ethically in the submission, review, and publication processes of the journal, ensuring that it aligns with the ethical standards of academic writing and theological scholarship.

2. Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to all authors, reviewers, editors, and any other stakeholders involved in the submission and publication process at QUAERENS. It specifically addresses the use of generative AI tools in the creation of academic manuscripts, including the drafting, editing, data analysis, and content generation stages of the research process.

3. Ethical Use of Generative AI

• Transparency: Authors must disclose the use of generative AI tools in their work. This includes but is not limited to AI-assisted writing, data analysis, literature review generation, and any other form of content creation facilitated by AI. Full acknowledgment of AI tools used should be included in the acknowledgments or methods section of the manuscript.

• Authorship and Responsibility: The use of generative AI does not absolve the author(s) of responsibility for the content. All AI-generated content must be carefully reviewed, edited, and contextualized by the authors. Authors must ensure that the content complies with academic standards of originality, relevance, and integrity.

• Originality and Integrity: Generative AI should not be used to plagiarize or create fabricated content. AI-generated text must be critically evaluated and should not replace the intellectual labor and scholarly contribution of the authors. All sources of data and information used by the AI must be properly cited and referenced according to the journal’s citation guidelines.

• Accuracy and Reliability: Authors must verify the factual accuracy of AI-generated content. AI tools are not infallible and may produce incorrect or biased information. It is the responsibility of the authors to ensure that the AI-generated content is accurate and reflects current scholarly understanding.

4. Use of Generative AI in Peer Review

• Bias and Fairness: Peer reviewers should assess AI-assisted submissions with a critical eye, ensuring that the research is sound, the AI's use is transparent, and that no ethical violations have occurred in the AI’s application.

• Confidentiality: Reviewers must handle AI-assisted manuscripts with the same level of confidentiality as any other submission. The use of generative AI must not compromise the confidentiality of the peer review process.

5. Restrictions on the Use of Generative AI

• Theological Integrity: While AI tools can be used to assist in drafting or researching, generative AI should not be used to formulate theological arguments or interpretations of sacred texts. AI-generated theological analysis should be cross-verified with authoritative theological perspectives to ensure that it upholds the integrity of Christian doctrine and theology.

• Originality of Research: Generative AI may assist in literature review generation or data analysis, but it cannot be used to replace original research or scholarly analysis. All contributions to the journal must reflect the author’s own scholarly input.

6. AI and the Review Process

• AI as a Tool for Peer Review: AI tools may be used by editors and reviewers to assist in detecting potential plagiarism or checking for consistency in citations. However, AI cannot replace the critical and theological expertise required for thorough review. The final decision on acceptance or rejection rests with the editorial team.

7. Compliance and Monitoring

• Compliance with Journal Standards: Authors and reviewers are expected to comply with the QUAERENS policies on ethical AI usage. Failure to do so, including failing to disclose AI usage or engaging in unethical practices such as plagiarism or data manipulation, will result in disqualification of the submission and possible bans from future submissions.

• Monitoring AI Use: The editorial team reserves the right to monitor and assess the use of AI in all submissions to ensure compliance with this policy. Random checks may be conducted to verify the extent of AI involvement and its ethical use.

8. Conclusion

The QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies recognizes the value of generative AI as a tool that can enhance academic research and writing. However, it is vital that AI is used ethically, transparently, and responsibly, maintaining the journal’s commitment to scholarly integrity and theological rigor. By adhering to this policy, the journal aims to foster a research environment where AI serves as a support to human creativity, critical thinking, and theological scholarship.

9. Contact Information

For any questions regarding this policy or the ethical use of AI in submissions, please contact the editorial team at jurnalquaerens@gmail.com.