Description

Mormonism and Transhumanism present parallel and complementary views of the future. They are parallel in their perspectives on the following: the present progress in knowledge; an imminent fundamental change in our nature and that of our world; and the possibility of dramatically transcending our current limitations. The Dispensation of the Fullness of Times parallels the Fourth Epoch. The Millennium and immortality parallel the Singularity and transhumans. Heavens and Gods parallel simulations and posthumans. The Transhumanist view complements the Mormon view by providing a rational basis for belief, promoting a more active faith, and encouraging an optimistic expectation for the near future. The Mormon view complements the Transhumanist view by providing a spiritual justification for desire, encouraging respect for tradition, and positing a moral imperative for universal salvation. The document association with these slides was published as the cover article of the March 2007 issue of Sunstone magazine, and is now available to you for free download thanks to the generosity of the Sunstone Education Foundation. The document is intended for a Mormon audience. It presents some basic Transhumanist ideas about the future and compares them to Mormon scripture and tradition.