In today’s episode, the guys are joined by Emilio Ramos, and they all discuss the idea of transhumanism, which is the integration of technology into human life and experience. Transhumanism is all about how technology can help the advancement of our human lives, and how technology can aid us. The guys discussed wearable examples of this such as the ring doorbell or our smartphones. However, this can become very serious when transhumanism enters posthumanism, which is when technology is used to achieve versions of humans other than what constitutes humans now. Transhumanists are saying that technology will take us to the next stages of evolution and that we can play a part in it. They believe that integrating technology into our bodies will be the next stage.
The guys talk through these four stages of posthumanism. Phase one is “wearables” or technology that creates benefits for humans. They gave an example as a pacemaker, which keeps people alive and helps people lead more comfortable lives. The second phase is integration of silicone technology for our health. The hosts mentioned this technology called “CRISPR”, which futurists expect to put an end to diseases such as cancer. The third phase is “enhancements,” where futurists believe scientists will be able to adjust genetic mutations for diseases, but then also mutate genetics for preferences, such as specific eye colors, higher IQ’s, etc. They discuss that in this stage, changing genetics will only be available to the elite and to the wealthy. People will not be created equal anymore. The last phase is where these futurists want to transfer our subconsciousness into a computer, virtual reality or an avatar in order to “live forever.” The futurists are saying that technology will give birth to future centiens and not just humans. They also discuss what does it actually mean to be human and what consciousness really is.
The guys also talk about how this idea of posthumanism is really humans trying to become like God and how this idea is not really new. Humans have been trying to become like God since the beginning of time. It all started with Satan wanting to become like God and then convincing Eve that she could be like God as well if she ate the fruit. But, we are already like God by being made in the image of God. In the story of Babel, the people tried to build the tower to reach into the heavens, but God destroyed the tower and did not let their plans succeed. Every time we try to be like God, it falls apart because we created something less than good. No matter how much man tries to reach His level, God will always be on His throne in heaven. God is in control and it all comes down to what God will allow to take place. God at some point will take down posthumanism, but no one knows when. The guys wrap up this episode by reassuring Christians that God is not worried and the only way to truly have immortality is in His kingdom forever.