"Moment of Zen"
Ross Douthat on Tech's Religious Awakening, AI, and Transhumanism
Apr 12, 2025
Ross Douthat, a New York Times columnist and author known for his insights on religion and culture, dives into fascinating discussions about the intersection of faith and technology. He argues for the intellectual validity of institutional religion in a world leaning towards secularization. Douthat also challenges traditional atheism through the lens of modern spiritual curiosity. He explores AI's potential impact on human consciousness and morality, raising questions about the nature of belief and the future of tech in society.
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Quick takeaways
- Ross Douthat argues that institutional religion may provide both social stability and intellectual justification, countering the decline of New Atheism.
- The discussion reveals a potential religious revival among secular Americans, particularly influenced by the technological culture of Silicon Valley.
Deep dives
Cultural Moment for Religion
The current cultural context suggests a shift in attitudes towards religion, moving away from the secularization trend that dominated the past two decades. The increase in Americans identifying as non-religious has plateaued, indicating a potential religious revival, especially among those who were raised without a religious background. This dynamic creates a space for a growing interest in spirituality and the exploration of belief systems, particularly among the tech-savvy audience in Silicon Valley. The ongoing dialogue around belief is seen as a response to the realization that a purely secular outlook has not necessarily resulted in a more rational or peaceful world.
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