Deep Down Things S01 E02 - Transhumanism, Resurrection in Black Mirror
Mar 24, 2021
Paul Treschow, a teacher and author known for his insights on transhumanism, engages with Dr. Dave Deavel and Liz Kelly to explore profound themes in the 'Black Mirror' episode 'Be Right Back.' They dive into the gripping narrative of grief and technology, questioning the authenticity of simulated companionship. The discussion contrasts philosophical views on identity with deep theological reflections on resurrection, ultimately revealing humanity's search for meaning beyond mere survival amidst digital advancements.
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Progressive Simulation Reveals Limits
- Black Mirror's "Be Right Back" uses near-future tech to test what digital resurrection would feel like in intimate life.
- The episode stages progressive simulations: chatbot, voice clone, then a physical replica, each worsening the tragedy.
Two Competing Anthropologies
- Charles Taylor's 'punctual self' frames identity as a point of consciousness with attachable qualities.
- Jacques Maritain's personalism counters this by locating a metaphysical center and wholeness ordained for communion with God.
Love Seeks Personhood, Not Perfection
- Martha rejects the recreated Ash because the simulation lacks a real personhood and metaphysical depth.
- The episode argues love seeks the person, flaws and all, not a perfected punctual self.
