Ilia Delio on Evolution, Quantum Physics, and Neuroscience in Theology
Feb 14, 2024
auto_awesome
Innovative theologian and neuroscientist Ilia Delio discusses Teilhard de Chardin, technology and AI, pursuit of extraterrestrial life, roles of evolution, quantum physics, and neuroscience in theology.
Teilhard de Chardin's concept of Theogenesis challenges traditional notions of a fixed and unchanging God, emphasizing the dynamic and unfolding nature of the world through evolution.
The integration of quantum physics and neuroscience into theology disrupts traditional views by highlighting the inseparable connection between matter and consciousness, the observer's role in determining reality, and the impact of complexity and consciousness on our understanding of God.
Deep dives
Tehar Desh-Shadah's Vision: Relational Holism of Science and Religion
Tehar Desh-Shadah's vision emphasizes the inseparable connection between religion and science, spirit and matter, which he sees as part of a dynamic whole in evolution. He views the emergence of the Noosphere, a level of mind and consciousness, as the next stage in biological evolution. Tehar's concept of Theogenesis introduces a new understanding of God in evolution, suggesting that God is becoming more whole through the process of evolution, rather than a fixed and unchanging entity. This novel perspective challenges traditional notions of an unchangeable God and highlights the dynamic and unfolding nature of the world.
The Noosphere: Rise of Global Brain and Hyper Personal Relationships
According to Tehar, the Noosphere represents the next level of thinking in evolution, where minds can be globally interconnected. He anticipates the emergence of a so-called electronic global mind, facilitated by advances in technology and artificial intelligence. Tehar's open and relational paradigm envisions the Noosphere as an integral part of the evolutionary process, impacting the structure of life, complexity, consciousness, and the emergence of hyper personal relationships. This perspective aligns with the modern understanding of interconnectedness, where individuals are seen as complex beings capable of self-reflection and knowing the universe that gave rise to their consciousness.
Theogenesis: God's Becoming in and through Evolution
Tehar's Theogenesis framework introduces a new understanding of God's role in evolution. Rejecting the traditional concept of an unchanging God, Tehar proposes that God is becoming more whole and complete through the process of evolution itself. God's growth and the growth of creation are interconnected, suggesting a deeply personal and relational paradigm. This challenges traditional theological ideas of a distant and unchanging God, highlighting the dynamic nature of the ongoing evolutionary process and the role of conscious beings in co-creating and participating in God's becoming.
The Impact of Quantum Physics, Neuroscience, and Evolution on Theology
Quantum physics disrupts traditional theology by challenging a substance-based notion of matter and revealing matter as a form of energy with waves of potential existence. Tehar integrates quantum ideas into his theology by emphasizing the inseparable connection between matter and consciousness, and the observer's role in determining reality. Neuroscience provides a deeper understanding of consciousness and the complexities of the human brain. Tehar's theology acknowledges the interplay between mind and matter as well as the relational aspects of the soul and consciousness. Evolution disrupts traditional theology by presenting a dynamic view of life's constant change, novelty, and becoming. Tehar sees evolution as a process of complexity and consciousness, affecting our understanding of God and requiring a new theology that embraces evolution and quantum physics.
Innovative theologian and neuroscientist Ilia Delio discusses Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, technology and AI, the pursuit of extraterrestrial life, and the roles of evolution, quantum physics, and neuroscience in theology.
Dr. Ilia Delio is a Franciscan Sister and a theologian from the Catholic tradition specializing in science and religion. She holds the Josephine Connelly Endowed Chair in Theology at Villanova University and is the founder of the Center for Christogenesis. She has earned two PhDs in neuropharmacology and historical theology, and is the author of twenty books including The Hours of the Universe and The Primacy of Love.
For subscriber-only benefits like discounts and bonus content, register for a free membership at closertotruth.com.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
