First-Year Seminars 110TB - Tech-Bro Theologies

AI is apocalyptic. AI is superhuman. Humans will become gods. We will defeat death and achieve physical immortality. We will transcend our physical bodies and achieve virtual immortality. Humanity will be saved but the planet will be abandoned. Alongside technological advances, Silicon Valley has generated a number of ideas about the destiny of human life. Many of these theories use religious language, or have been described through religious language: apocalyptic, messianic, cult-like. Can the tools of religious studies help us understand the propagation and popularity of these "tech-bro theologies"? Are these "theologies" compatible or in competition with adherence to mainstream religions?
Taught by A. Steinfels Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:00-10:15am

Mount Holyoke first-year students only, by placement.