Title:
Saved through technology: Exploring the soteriology and eschatology of transhumanism
Author:
Mikael Leidenhag
Science and Theology Editor at The School of Divinity, University of St Andrews
Published:
Religion Compass, Volume14, Issue, 11, pp. 1-9 (November 2020)
Abstract:
According to the intellectual and cultural movement of transhumanism, human beings are in the early stages of development, and it encourages the use of modern science to radically enhance physical, intellectual, psychological and moral capacities. This article offers an overview of transhumanism by outlining its historical roots and some current debates within this movement. This article will further describe several theological responses to transhumanist ambitions and predictions about the future. As will be seen in this article, how one understands ‘salvation’ affects whether the relationship between Christianity and transhumanism can be framed in terms of a conflict or cautious friendship. The article will end by showing the ways in which transhumanism itself gives rise to both soteriological and eschatological beliefs about human nature and the wider cosmos.