Longing for Transcendence: Cyborgs and Trans- and Posthumans. (March 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Vicini, Andrea; Brazal, Agnes M.
• Is Part Of: Theological studies. Volume 76:Number 1(2015:Mar.)
• Page Start: 148
• Page End: 165
• Publication Date: 2015-03
• Subjects: anthropology -- Body of Christ -- cyborg -- ethics -- Internet -- posthuman -- sacramentality -- solidarity -- technology and body -- transhuman; Theology -- Periodicals; Periodicals; Periodicals; 230
• DOI: 10.1177/0040563914565308
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0040-5639

Abstract

Technology is transforming the human body into a cyborg by making it a part of cyber networks. Transhumanists and posthumanists argue that technology will enable humans to overcome bodily limitation by reaching a technological immortality. The authors discuss recent literature on anthropological approaches and ethical implications about this technological promise. They suggest that the "Body of Christ" metaphor—by emphasizing embodiment, sacramentality, difference, and solidarity—can guide our reflection on corporeality and on the human because this metaphor refers not just to the human body of Jesus Christ but also to the Eucharist, the church, and the eschatological Body of Christ in creation.