Mormon Transhumanism - Carl Youngblood and Lincoln Cannon | Ep. 1546

The Intersection of Mormonism and Transhumanism: A Revolutionary Union?

Mormon transhumanism is not your typical dinner conversation topic, yet it is a significant fusion of futuristic ideals with historical religious beliefs. The interplay between technology and spirituality is not just theoretical; it's tangible in the lives of individuals like Carl Youngblood and Lincoln Cannon. Their involvement in the Mormon Transhumanist Association challenges the traditional paradigms of what it means to believe in a religion that already treads in the realm of the extraordinary. Through enhanced consciousness, biomedical improvements, and digital immortality, Mormon transhumanists aim to not just anticipate the future but actively redefine it. Does this emerging ideology offer a new lens through which Mormonism might evolve, or is it a radical departure from foundational doctrines?

The Origin Story of Mormon Transhumanism

Mormon transhumanism didn't appear out of thin air. Rooted in both science fiction and deep theological questions, it naturally aligns with Mormonism's history of embracing the remarkable. Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism, was known for his progressive ideas about godhood, suggesting that humanity could eventually reach a state comparable to deity. This doctrine aligns seamlessly with the transhumanist aim of using technology and science to overcome human limitations.

According to the Mormon Stories Podcast, hosted by John Dolin, individuals like Carl Youngblood grew up in tech-savvy households where science and religion were not at odds, but partners. Their background in technology made them open to transhumanist ideas, reflecting Mormonism’s relatively unique openness to the physical realities of the universe, something that often clashes with mainstream religious teachings. The partnership between Mormonism and transhumanism thrives on this shared vision of elevating humanity.

Key Claims and Evidence: Merging Beliefs with Tech