Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Christian?

A disciple of Christ (Acts 11:26)

What is a Transhumanist?

Someone who advocates using science & technology to transform the human condition.

What is a Christian Transhumanist?

Someone who advocates using science & technology to transform the human condition—in a way consistent with, and as exemplified by, the discipleship of Christ.

What is the Christian Transhumanist Association?

An ecumenical organization seeking to promote positive engagement between Christianity and the leading edges of scientific & technological thought.

Do Christian Transhumanists have a basic statement of principles?

Yes. Read the Christian Transhumanist Affirmation.

What does the Christian Transhumanist Association do?

Broadly speaking, the Christian Transhumanist Association seeks to cultivate four things:

  1. A conversation between Christianity and the leading edges of scientific & technological thought.
  2. An emerging theology of technology within the Christian tradition.
  3. A voice for positive, relational values within the broader transhumanist project.
  4. A positive religious vision that calls Christians to serve on behalf of the world.

What do Christian Transhumanists think about X?

There are almost certainly a number of different opinions. That's a good thing! If we knew all the answers, we wouldn't need to have the conversation.

What do Christian Transhumanists oppose?

Most notably, versions of transhumanism that seek to lift up some at the expense of others.

Why use the term “transhumanist”?

The term transhumanism is a touchpoint for conversation between the billions of Christians in the world, and thinkers on the leading edges of science and technology. Historically, it has a rich background in Christian thought, apparently coined by Dante circa 1320, to reflect on notions of spiritual transformation. Now, it is commonly used to address the interface between humans and futuristic technologies, such as advanced prosthetics, nanotechnology, and artificial intelligence.

What is the history of the word “transhumanism”?

It originates with Dante in 1320, winds through Christian history, and is picked up in the work of Jesuit priest and paleontologist Pierre Teilhard de Chardin. Teilhard's friend Julien Huxley uses the term in 1957 in attempt to define a philosophy of humanity's ongoing transformation. This leads to secular transhumanism, as it is understood today. 

Read more about this history.