Orthodox Health The Gospel According to the Algorithm: AI, Medicine, & the Post-Human Promise
In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & John explore the intersection of AI, medicine, and Orthodox theology.
They discuss the ethical implications of AI in healthcare, the allure of transhumanism, & the importance of community & communion in true healing.
The conversation emphasizes the need for a return to the Orthodox understanding of the person, which transcends mere data & optimization, advocating for a holistic approach to health that includes spiritual dimensions.
Sound Bites:
"Transhumanism seeks perfection without God."
"True healing is found in the Orthodox tradition."
"Fear of death drives the transhumanist agenda."
Takeaways:
- AI is transforming medicine, but raises ethical concerns.
- The post-human gospel offers a false promise of immortality.
- Transhumanism seeks perfection without God.
- True healing is found in the Orthodox tradition.
- Digital health tools can lead to a new form of idolatry.
- The Orthodox Church teaches the importance of communion & community.
- Modern medicine often prioritizes data over the person.
- Theosis is the ultimate goal of Orthodox healing.
- Fear of death drives the transhumanist agenda.
- Real healing involves surrendering to God, not optimizing oneself.
Chapters:
00:00 The Gospel According to the Algorithm
06:37 The Rise of AI in Medicine
13:30 Bioethics Without Christ Through the Lifecycle
16:35 Transhumanism & the Promise of Immortality
20:22 Tin Foil & Apple Symbolism
21:39 Transhumanism & the Fear of Death
22:20 The Institutionalization of Thanatophobia
25:20 Embracing Freedom from Fear Through the Church
26:51 Digital Asceticism & Health Tracking
29:37 Continuous Glucose Monitors are NOT Repentance
34:20 The Parody of Sainthood in Modernity
39:00 Reclaiming Real Sacraments
41:53 The True Nature of Humanity
44:20 Closing Thoughts & Looking Ahead
45:41 Outro
Support the Show with a One-Time or Recurring donation: coff.ee/OrthodoxHealthWork with Dr. Mike: https://www.OrthodoxHealth.comPre-Order Orthodoxy & The Medicine of the Future: https://www.orthodoxhealth.com/bookIntro & Outro Music: St. John of Chicago Orthodox Church Choir (Arkansas) - Please support their building fund by buying the whole album here: https://stjohnorthodoxchurch.bandcamp.com/album/come-ye-faithful-building-fundraiser