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Showing papers in "Zygon in 2023"


Journal ArticleDOI
03 Apr 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: In this article , the authors explore the relations between the idea of deep incarnation and scientific ideas of an informational universe, in which mass, energy, and information belong together, and propose three hypotheses for showing how and why.
Abstract: This article explores the relations between the idea of deep incarnation and scientific ideas of an informational universe, in which mass, energy, and information belong together. It is argued that the cosmic Christologies developed in the vein of Cappadocian theology (fourth century) and the Franciscan theologian Bonaventure (thirteenth century) can be interpreted as precursors of an informational worldview by consistently blending “formative” and “material” aspects of creativity. Reversely, contemporary sciences of information can enlarge the scope of the contemporary view of deep incarnation. I propose three hypotheses for showing how and why. First, mass, energy, and information have an equal causal importance for explaining reality. Second, just as transformation presupposes communication, so communication presupposes information. Third, contemporary science can elucidate seminal concerns of the idea of deep incarnation, insofar as informational structures pave the way for information capture, communication, and transformation. At the level of organismic life, new features of embodied cognition and emotion come up, important for understanding the organismic depth of the concrete incarnation in Jesus of Nazareth.

2 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
22 Mar 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: In this article , the authors claim that the logoi (divine ideas or wills) do indeed behave in an evolutionary fashion, diverging hierarchically and interactively from the Logos.
Abstract: In recent years, several scholars have hinted at a resemblance between Maximus the Confessor's logoi cosmology and evolutionary biology. In this article, I develop these suggestions further and claim that the logoi (divine ideas or wills) do indeed behave in an evolutionary fashion, diverging hierarchically and interactively from the Logos. However, there the similarity ends, for the logoi are also purposeful, inviolable, and good, unlike evolution which is said to be random, ever-changing, and cruel. But rather than abandon the logoi–evolution congruity, I argue that, by harnessing theological resources from across the Eastern tradition, one can integrate Maximus’ logoi vision more fully, resulting in an “incarnationally panentheistic” model of God's action and presence in evolution. More speculatively, within canonical Darwinism, the underlying (good) evolutionary motion of the logoi might be discernible in variation and adaptation, with the “evil” of competition and natural selection being “garments of skin” conceded by God as part of a simultaneous creation and cosmic fall.

2 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
10 May 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: The authors argues that understanding human uniqueness requires recognizing that we are a cultural species whose evolution has been driven by the interaction among genes and culture for over a million years, and highlights ongoing efforts to apply this approach to more deeply understand both the universal aspects of our cognition as well as the variation across societies.
Abstract: This article argues that understanding human uniqueness requires recognizing that we are a cultural species whose evolution has been driven by the interaction among genes and culture for over a million years. Here, I review the basic argument, incorporate recent findings, and highlight ongoing efforts to apply this approach to more deeply understand both the universal aspects of our cognition as well as the variation across societies. This article will cover (1) the origins and evolution of our capacities for culture, (2) examples of specialized mental abilities such as those related to mechanical causality, prestige, and cooperation, and (3) recent efforts to apprehend our capacities for abstraction. I close by discussing common canards that generate confusion in mapping what makes us human.

2 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
01 Mar 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: Navarro and De Asúa as mentioned in this paper reviewed science and Catholicism in Argentina (1750-1960): A Study on Scientific Culture, Religion, and Secularisation in Latin America.
Abstract: Zygon®Volume 58, Issue 2 p. 559-561 Review Science and Catholicism in Argentina (1750–1960): A Study on Scientific Culture, Religion, and Secularisation in Latin America. By Miguel De Asúa. Berlin/Boston: De Gruyter. 2022. 365 pages. $118.99. (Hardcover). Jaume Navarro, Corresponding Author Jaume Navarro [email protected] Ikerbasque Research Professor, University of the Basque Country email: [email protected]Search for more papers by this author Jaume Navarro, Corresponding Author Jaume Navarro [email protected] Ikerbasque Research Professor, University of the Basque Country email: [email protected]Search for more papers by this author First published: 01 March 2023 https://doi.org/10.1111/zygo.12877Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Volume58, Issue2June 2023Pages 559-561 RelatedInformation

1 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
22 Mar 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: In this article , a critique of transhumanist ontologies of information is presented and an alternative ontology of information that more adequately accounts for the distinction between the natural and supernatural as well as the integrity of the physical world is proposed.
Abstract: An ontology of information belies our common intuitions about reality today and animates and governs both explicit scholarly study in philosophy and the sciences as well as the ideologies that are growing out of them. Transhumanism is one such technoscientific ideology that holds to a very specific ontology of information which need not be the only one on offer. This article argues that the transhumanist ontology of information exhibits gnostic and docetic religious overtones in it and that it devalues physical existence. At the same time, despite claiming a rejection of supernature, hypothetical transhumanist practices (such as mind-uploading) posit the infosphere as a kind of supernatural realm that is often set in opposition to the natural world. This article presents a critique of transhumanist conceptions of information and offers an alternative ontology of information that more adequately accounts for the distinction between the natural and supernatural as well as the integrity of the physical world.

1 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
02 May 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: In this article , a summary of the Pleistocene evolution of the genus Homo and an argument for when and how extensive and distinctive capacities for shared meaning-making and a particularly dynamic niche construction emerged.
Abstract: Part of the task in studying human evolution is developing a deep understanding of what we share, and do not share, with other life, as a mammal, a primate, a hominin, and as members of the genus Homo. A key aspect of this last facet is gained via the examination of the genus Homo across the Pleistocene. By at least the later Pleistocene members of the genus Homo began to habitually insert shared meaning into and onto their world forming one of the bases of contemporary human abilities to develop a distinctive human niche and human culture. Meaning-laden cultural dynamics constitute the core of a ubiquitous semiotic ecosystem, which in turn structures the architecture of the complex niches and niche construction processes that characterize humanity today. Here, I offer a summary of Pleistocene evolution of the genus Homo and an argument for when and how that extensive and distinctive capacities for shared meaning-making and a particularly dynamic niche construction emerged.

1 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
06 Jun 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: Gatherer et al. as mentioned in this paper reviewed the Cooperative Neuron: Cellular Foundations of Mental Life (CoNeuron) by William A. Phillips. 384 pages, Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Abstract: Zygon®Early View Review The Cooperative Neuron: Cellular Foundations of Mental Life. By William A. Phillips. Oxford: Oxford University Press. 2023. 384 pages. $65.00. (Hardcover). Derek Gatherer, Corresponding Author Derek Gatherer [email protected] orcid.org/0000-0002-7385-5734 Division of Biomedical & Life Sciences, Faculty of Health & Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK Correspondence Derek Gatherer, Division of Biomedical & Life Sciences, Faculty of Health & Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YW, UK. e-mail: [email protected]Search for more papers by this author Derek Gatherer, Corresponding Author Derek Gatherer [email protected] orcid.org/0000-0002-7385-5734 Division of Biomedical & Life Sciences, Faculty of Health & Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK Correspondence Derek Gatherer, Division of Biomedical & Life Sciences, Faculty of Health & Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YW, UK. e-mail: [email protected]Search for more papers by this author First published: 06 June 2023 https://doi.org/10.1111/zygo.12911Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL No abstract is available for this article. Early ViewOnline Version of Record before inclusion in an issue RelatedInformation

1 citations



Journal ArticleDOI
12 May 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: The authors argue that the technological solutions that characterize twenty-first-century innovation can only be explained by understanding both the capacity to learn from and build upon the insights of others and the transmission systems that store the knowledge and technologies of previous generations.
Abstract: What explains the unique features of human culture? Culture is not uniquely human, but human culture is uniquely cumulative. Cumulative culture is a product of our collective intelligence and is supported by cognitive processes and learning strategies that enable people to acquire, transform, and transmit information and technologies within and across generations. Technological and social innovations are currently driving unprecedented changes in cultural complexity and diversity. Innovation is a cognitively and socially complex, multistep process that typically requires (cumulative) cultural learning to achieve. I argue that the technological solutions that characterize twenty-first-century innovation can only be explained by understanding both the capacity to learn from and build upon the insights of others and the transmission systems that store the knowledge and technologies of previous generations. Human uniqueness is a product of cumulative cultural learning, transmission, and innovation.

1 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
16 Feb 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: In this paper , the authors argue that taking seriously the radical consequences of the Everett interpretation means facing at least three major worries for theism pertaining to personal identity, the problem of evil, and salvation.
Abstract: Theological engagement with quantum mechanics has been dominated by the Copenhagen interpretation, failing to reflect the fact that philosophers and physicists alike are increasingly moving away from the Copenhagen interpretation in favor of other approaches. One such approach, Hugh Everett's so-called Many Worlds Interpretation (MWI), is being taken increasingly seriously. As the MWI's credibility grows, it is imperative that metaphysicians, theologians, and philosophers of religion engage with its ideas and their implications. This article does just that, setting out some implications of Everettian Quantum Mechanics that are particularly relevant to theism. It argues that taking seriously the radical consequences of the Everett interpretation means facing at least three major worries for theism pertaining to personal identity, the problem of evil, and salvation. The article concludes by calling on theologians and philosophers of religion to address these worries, in order that these matters of religious significance remain both coherent and credible if the MWI turns out to be correct.

1 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
22 Mar 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: In this paper , the authors present a proposal to extend the concept of "rescue and recovery" found in the United Nations Law of the High Seas, off-world and within a broader purview of other intelligent and self-aware species that humans may someday encounter.
Abstract: New theological understanding can emerge with the advancement of scientific knowledge and the use of new concepts, or older concepts in new ways. Here, the authors present a proposal to extend the concept of “rescue and recovery” found in the United Nations Law of the High Seas, off-world and within a broader purview of other intelligent and self-aware species that humans may someday encounter. The notion of a morality that extends to off-world species is not new, but in this analysis, rescue and recovery become an imperative when any intelligent and self-aware species is in harm's way. Rescue and recovery encompass a necessary action component except perhaps in those cases where rescuers are in danger. The authors explore three biblical examples of rescue and recovery to derive a fundamental meaning of the concept.


Journal ArticleDOI
01 Apr 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: The authors argue that what makes us distinct from androids are capacities that rise from and depend on our responsive bodies, and they propose the responsive body hypothesis, which is based on the human body hypothesis.
Abstract: In this article, we argue two points in relation to the challenge to human distinctiveness emerging as artificial intelligence systems and humanlike robots simulate various human capabilities. First, that, in the context of theological anthropology, it is advisable to respond to this challenge by turning toward the human body. Second, following this point, we propose the responsive body hypothesis, suggesting that what makes us distinct from androids are capacities that rise from and depend on our responsive bodies.

Journal ArticleDOI
28 Apr 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: A Jewish approach to the challenge is offered in this article , where the authors argue that from a scientific perspective, the uniqueness of the human is possibly a matter of degree, not kind, and that the scientific perspective prescinds from judgments of the value of human.
Abstract: Uniqueness implies singularity, incomparability. Nonetheless, as applied to everything within the human lifeworld, including ourselves, uniqueness is relativized. This becomes clear in the tension between “commonsensical” and “scientific” perspectives on the human. Our commonsense approach posits that human beings are unique among animals—unique because of our properties, most especially our consciousness, as well as because of our significance and value. From a scientific perspective, however, the uniqueness of the human—if it can be affirmed at all—is possibly a matter of degree, not kind. Additionally, the scientific perspective prescinds from judgments of the value of the human. To join these perspectives, without giving up on the importance of either one, is a philosophical and theological challenge. A Jewish approach to the challenge is offered here.

Journal ArticleDOI
01 Mar 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: The state-of-the-art journal of the Journal of Religion and Science as discussed by the authors provides a podium for deep reflection on the state of play in "quantum theology": theological reflection that is related to the physical theory of quantum mechanics.
Abstract: This issue of Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science offers a podium for deep reflection on the state-of-play in “quantum theology”: theological reflection that is related to the physical theory of quantum mechanics. The thematic section has been guest edited by Mark Harris. His opening article—which in its introductory section also refers to all the other articles in the section—highlights that theological engagement with quantum physics has been dominated by the so-called “Copenhagen interpretation”; he argues for a commitment to “quantum fundamentalism,” which resolves some enduring ontological problems and takes quantum theology “beyond Copenhagen.” Shaun Henson, in dealing with Everett's “Many-Worlds Interpretation,” focuses on the status of scientific terms; he shows that the extent to which belief in Many-Worlds (which is metaphysically challenging) is believable depends on several dynamic socially oriented categories. Emily Qureshi-Hurst addresses some implications of the Many-Worlds Interpretation that are particularly relevant to theism; she argues that taking seriously the radical consequences of this interpretation means facing at least three major worries for theism pertaining to personal identity, the problem of evil, and salvation. Elise Crull offers what she calls an “interpretation-neutral yet realist” stance towards quantum mechanics; she illustrates how her interpretation-neutral take on quantum mechanics that includes the notion of “decoherence” can helpfully reframe accounts of divine action. Wilson Poon and Tom McLeish warn that one should be cautious in claiming distinctiveness for quantum theologizing (versus, for instance, theologizing classical statistical mechanics); they posit that both quantum mechanics and classical statistical mechanics point to “theology of science in which scientists participate in the divine gaze on creation as imago Dei.” And Ernest Simmons utilizes the concept of quantum decoherence, augmented by the novel theory of quantum Darwinism, to understand the transition from the quantum to the classical worlds; from his reading of quantum biology, he distills some theological metaphors for articulating divine presence at the level of life in theistic evolution. This issue also contains four articles from the 67th Annual Summer Conference of the Institute on Religion in an Age of Science (IRAS), entitled “‘We’ & ‘They’: Cross-Cultural Conversations on Identity,” which was held at Star Island, NH, USA from June 26 to July 3, 2022. Anindita Balslev highlights in her article why cross-cultural conversation is important; that conversation has the potential to give a new direction to the dynamics between “the self and the other.” CJ Love argues in her article that unraveling the complex notion of “self” and “other” necessitates a layered approach that explores genetics, phenomenology, and religion; she emphasizes the need for forming a holistic picture of body, mind, event, memory, and morality. Andrew Newberg expands in his article on the role of the brain and the biological basis of the self; he argues that the self and self-consciousness is one of the most mysterious aspects of the human being, but also that to some degree we are trapped within our brain and our consciousness, which represent our own identity. And Calvin Chatlos, in his article, applies his “Framework of Spirituality” to the identity of adolescents; he makes clear that an alternative approach to adolescent development is needed that does not reinforce a fundamental experiential separateness of “me” and “other,” but that instead promotes a spiritual transformation process that is inclusive of the “other.” The Articles section contains four articles. In the first article, Gabriel Fernandez-Borsot contributes to philosophical reflection on the role of technology in society, particularly on the intersections between spirituality and technology; in his analysis, spirituality appears as an essential dimension to cultivate in technological societies, while he argues that technology might actually reveal spirituality as richer and deeper than has been apparent in traditional settings. In the second article, Yong Sup Song and Robert Geraci study the interactions between spirituality and technology in the specific context of Korea; they consider the themes of marginalization and transcendence in transhumanism and minjung theology and reflect on the exclusion of some from the benefits of technological society and on living in the context of multiple dimensions of oppression. In the third article, Kevin Ndereba addresses the nonreligious identity formation among male Kenyan Youth, which is increasingly common; he shows how youth social groups provide spaces for wrestling with the intellectual questions raised by religious faiths and argues that nonreligious communities could benefit from moving beyond the usual caricature of strong incompatibilism that is part of popular atheist literature. Finally, in the fourth article, Eugenia Torrance revisits Newton's theology by questioning whether he promulgated a “God of the gaps” argument; she thinks that he did not and uses some of his letters and drafts to suggest that any gaps in mechanical were filled by Newton with nonmechanical natural causes and argues that Newton wanted readers to marvel at humans’ inability to fully understand his scientific system. The Articles section is followed by a reflection from Josh Reeves on Peter Harrison's “After Science and Religion” project, to which Peter Harrison offers a response. The issue ends with a book review. Ron Cole-Turner reviews Victoria Lorrimar's Human Technological Enhancement and Theological Anthropology.

Journal ArticleDOI
17 Feb 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: By utilizing the concept of quantum decoherence, augmented by the novel theory of quantum Darwinism, to understand the transition from the quantum to the classical worlds, the scaling up of the quantum entanglement to the biological level offers a fascinating metaphor for the presence of the creative spirit in nature and the “flesh” of Incarnation as discussed by the authors .
Abstract: By utilizing the concept of quantum decoherence, augmented by the novel theory of quantum Darwinism, to understand the transition from the quantum to the classical worlds, the scaling up of the concept of quantum entanglement2018 to the biological level offers a fascinating metaphor for the presence of the creative spirit in nature and the “flesh” of Incarnation. This in turn provides helpful theological metaphors for articulating divine presence at the level of life in theistic evolution, partially addressing the issue of evolutionary theodicy by supporting the concept of deep Incarnation. The point of understanding the Incarnation as deeply entangled enfleshment is that it brings the suffering of creation into the life of the Redeemer as well as the Creator, facilitating redemption and hope through the divine life.

Journal ArticleDOI
04 May 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: In both science and theology, there has been a revolution in our understanding of the nature of human uniqueness as discussed by the authors , which is being revealed by fossil, archaeological, and genetic evidence.
Abstract: In both science and theology, there has been a revolution in our understanding of the nature of human uniqueness. As a background to this Symposium on the subject, a summary is here given of the history of Homo sapiens that is being revealed by fossil, archaeological, and genetic evidence. This is followed by a description of some of the distinctive characteristics of humans that have been proposed in the past, such as language, tool use, self-consciousness, art, and culture. Ideas from theology and philosophy that are salient for the dialogue with science are then mentioned, together with a summary of the scientific and theological insights on uniqueness from contributors to this Symposium in Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science.

Journal ArticleDOI
02 May 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: Lorrimar et al. as discussed by the authors reviewed Human Becoming in an Age of Science, Technology, and Faith: A Review by Philip Hefner and Mladen Turk.
Abstract: Zygon®Volume 58, Issue 2 p. 556-557 Review Human Becoming in an Age of Science, Technology, and Faith. By Philip Hefner. Edited by Jason P. Roberts and Mladen Turk. Lanham, MD: Lexington Books/Fortress Academics. 2022. 245 pages. $100.00. (Hardcover). Victoria Lorrimar, Victoria Lorrimar orcid.org/0000-0001-6997-4135 School of Philosophy and Theology, University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle [email protected]Search for more papers by this author Victoria Lorrimar, Victoria Lorrimar orcid.org/0000-0001-6997-4135 School of Philosophy and Theology, University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle [email protected]Search for more papers by this author First published: 02 May 2023 https://doi.org/10.1111/zygo.12905Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Volume58, Issue2June 2023Pages 556-557 RelatedInformation

Journal ArticleDOI
02 May 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: In this paper , the authors provide some genetic perspectives on the question "Just How Special Are Humans Really?" and discuss two ways in which genetic analyses has, on multiple occasions, shown that humans are less unique than we thought we are.
Abstract: This article seeks to provide some genetic perspectives on the question “Just How Special Are Humans—Really?” It begins with an introduction to how genetic variation can provide information about the past. It continues by discussing two ways in which genetic analyses has, on multiple occasions, shown that humans are less unique than we thought we are. We have a cognitive bias to toward thinking we are special. Our species has colonized an ecological niche not exploited by any other species on our earth, but how much of our adaptation to that niche is cultural rather than genetic?

Journal ArticleDOI
01 Apr 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: In this paper , the authors offer a background to digital theology and its methodology, exploring especially aspects of transhumanism and metaphysical enquiry, and extend this engagement with John by querying the model of incarnation in "deep incarnation" but building on the Logos/logoi to set out some initial building blocks for an alternative metaphysics of information.
Abstract: In this article, I offer a background to digital theology and its methodology, exploring especially aspects of transhumanism and metaphysical enquiry. The article moves on to engage with several articles given at the Science and Religion Forum at Birmingham in 2022, especially the Gowland Lecture given by Professor Niels Gregersen and the Peacocke Lecture by Andrew Jackson. Both offer a metaphysical approach to information linked closely to the concept of Logos drawn from the Prologue of John—Jackson focusing on Maximus the Confessor's exploration of phylogenetic logoi; Gregersen on a further development of “Deep Incarnation” through the title “God with Clay” drawn from Bonaventure. The article extends this engagement with John by querying the model of incarnation in “deep incarnation” but building on the Logos/logoi to set out some initial building blocks for an alternative metaphysics of information.

Journal ArticleDOI
10 May 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: The Zygon Symposium on "Just How Special Are Humans?" as mentioned in this paper is a collection of articles from a symposium at Harvard University in 2020 that brought together world leaders on the study of human nature from science, theology, and philosophy.
Abstract: We here introduce the Zygon Symposium on “Just How Special Are Humans?” This collection is based on a symposium at Harvard University in 2020 that brought together world leaders on the study of human nature from science, theology, and philosophy. They shared their research and perceptive insights on this key topic of great contemporary interest from quite different disciplines and viewpoints. The present Symposium contains articles further developed from the presentations, as well as two additional contributions from experts specializing in theological ethics and philosophy of religion.

Journal ArticleDOI
15 Feb 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: In this article , the formal mapping of quantum mechanics into classical statistical mechanics (CSM) via the mathematical device of "Wick rotation" has been discussed, and it is argued that the equivalence between QM and CSM suggests caution in claiming distinctiveness for quantum theologizing.
Abstract: Quantum mechanics (QM) is a favorite area of physics to feature in “science and religion” discussions. We argue that this is at least partly because the arcane results of QM can be deployed to make big theological claims by the linguistic sleight of hand of “register switching”—sliding imperceptibly from technical into everyday language using the same vocabulary. We clarify the discussion by deploying the formal mapping of QM into classical statistical mechanics (CSM) via the mathematical device of “Wick rotation.” This equivalence between QM and CSM suggests caution in claiming distinctiveness for quantum theologizing. After outlining two areas in which quantum insights nevertheless resonate with longstanding themes in theological reflection (hiddenness and visualizability), we suggest that both QM and CSM point to a theology of science in which scientists participate in the divine gaze on creation as imago Dei.

Journal ArticleDOI
22 Feb 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: In this article , the neuroscientific understanding of the self and personal identity, focusing on various elements of inclusivity and exclusivity as well as engaging religious and spiritual perspectives, is reviewed.
Abstract: This article reviews the neuroscientific understanding of the self and personal identity, focusing on various elements of inclusivity and exclusivity as well as engaging religious and spiritual perspectives. We will also consider how the identity is comprised of biological, social, and ideological or spiritual aspects, and how they are interconnected. We will consider how the brain helps us to construct and maintain our representation of the self and what happens when we have self-transcendent experiences. Such an evaluation will have implications for understanding the intersection between consciousness and the self. This information will be helpful from both the psychological and spiritual perspective for understanding human identity.

Journal ArticleDOI
01 May 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: Zygon® Volume 58, Issue 2 p.12907 as mentioned in this paper , June 2023, The T&T Clark Handbook of Christian Theology and the Modern Sciences, 2019.
Abstract: Zygon®Volume 58, Issue 2 p. 554-555 Reviews T&T Clark Handbook of Christian Theology and the Modern Sciences. Edited by John P. Slattery. London/New York: T&T Clark. 2020. 377 pages. £150.00. (Hardcover). £39.99. (Paperback). Arthur C. Petersen, Arthur C. Petersen [email protected] Department of Science, Technology, Engineering and Public Policy, University College London, London, UKSearch for more papers by this author Arthur C. Petersen, Arthur C. Petersen [email protected] Department of Science, Technology, Engineering and Public Policy, University College London, London, UKSearch for more papers by this author First published: 01 May 2023 https://doi.org/10.1111/zygo.12907Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Volume58, Issue2June 2023Pages 554-555 RelatedInformation

Journal ArticleDOI
05 Apr 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: In this article , the authors introduce the concept of spiritual intelligence in terms of a natural human ability to take a different perspective on reality rather than an extraordinary ability to engage with a different/supernatural reality.
Abstract: This article introduces the concept of spiritual intelligence in terms of a natural human ability to take a different perspective on reality rather than an extraordinary ability to engage with a different/supernatural reality. From a cognitive perspective, spiritual intelligence entails a re-balancing of the two main modes of human cognition, with a prioritization of the holistic-intuitive mind over the conceptual one. From the psychological and phenomenological perspectives, it involves a different kind of engagement with information: slower, more participatory, less objectifying, and not focused entirely on problem solving. The article ends with a reflection on the theological implications of the proposed model and how such an account of spiritual intelligence as knowing differently might relate to theological anthropology and the theology of the spirit and the spiritual.

Journal ArticleDOI
26 May 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: In this paper , a mediating structure for AI proto-personhood is defined analogous to an early stage of human development, which bridges technical, psychological and theological perspectives on near-future AI and is structured by its hardware, software, computational, and sociotechnical systems through which it experiences its world as embodied (even for putatively disembodied AI).
Abstract: As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes progressively more engaged with society, its shift from technical tool to participating in society raises questions about AI personhood. Drawing upon developmental psychology and systems theory, a mediating structure for AI proto-personhood is defined analogous to an early stage of human development. The proposed AI bridges technical, psychological, and theological perspectives on near-future AI and is structured by its hardware, software, computational, and sociotechnical systems through which it experiences its world as embodied (even for putatively disembodied AI). Further social and moral construction can occur building upon a simple “self” for AI synthesized from symbolic and statistical approaches to AI.

Journal ArticleDOI
24 May 2023-Zygon

Journal ArticleDOI
01 May 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: In this paper , a new reading of the late fourth-century work entitled On the Human Image of God (otherwise known in English as On the Making of Man) by Gregory of Nyssa is presented.
Abstract: This essay explores the way in which early Christian writers held an eschatological understanding of what it is to be human, something that is to be attained, through the transformation of death and resurrection, and something that requires our assent. In this context, the article offers a new reading of the late fourth-century work entitled On the Human Image of God (otherwise known in English as On the Making of Man) by Gregory of Nyssa. It argues that Gregory structured his text in parallel to the three parts of Timaeus’ speech in Plato's dialogue. The resulting picture sees creation as a dynamic ascent from the lower forms of life to the higher, a growth which is recapitulated in the life-span of each human being, and also the growth of the human race into the totality of human beings that together constitute the human being in the image of God, the body of Christ.

Journal ArticleDOI
01 Mar 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: In this article , the incorporation of relationality into a philosophical understanding of self is discussed, as well as how these different approaches to identity help us understand the “self.”
Abstract: Unraveling the complex notion of “self” and “other” necessitates a layered approach that explores biology, namely genetics; philosophy, namely event phenomenology; and culture, namely religion. This essay examines (1) the latest paradigm shift occurring in the genetic sciences due to the increased knowledge of epigenetic effects on gene expression and how our DNA functions in concert with the cellular apparatus, the body, and the environment; (2) the incorporation of relationality into a philosophical understanding of self; and (3) finally, what religion adds to this exploration of self. Thus, providing a glimpse at how these different approaches to identity help us understand the “self.”

Journal ArticleDOI
27 Apr 2023-Zygon
TL;DR: Abel K. Aruan and Rebecca L. Copeland as mentioned in this paper presented the Wygon volume 58, issue 2 p. 557-559 Review of Created Being: Expanding Creedal Christology.
Abstract: Zygon®Volume 58, Issue 2 p. 557-559 Review Created Being: Expanding Creedal Christology. By Rebecca L. Copeland. Waco, TX: Baylor University Press. 2020. 158 pages. $39.99. (Hardcover). Abel K. Aruan, Corresponding Author Abel K. Aruan [email protected] orcid.org/0000-0002-6174-7007 Boston University e-mail: [email protected]Search for more papers by this author Abel K. Aruan, Corresponding Author Abel K. Aruan [email protected] orcid.org/0000-0002-6174-7007 Boston University e-mail: [email protected]Search for more papers by this author First published: 27 April 2023 https://doi.org/10.1111/zygo.12906Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Volume58, Issue2June 2023Pages 557-559 RelatedInformation