divine image

Basil of Caesarea (330–379 AD), known as Basil the Great, was a bishop and influential theologian who supported the Nicene Creed. He was one of the Cappadocian Fathers, along with his brother Gregory of Nyssa and friend Gregory of Nazianzus. Basil made significant contributions to Christian monasticism and liturgy. His writings on the Holy Spirit explore how souls illuminated by the Spirit become spiritual themselves and send forth grace to others, becoming like God through divine participation. He established guidelines for monastic life that influenced both Eastern and Western monasticism, and his liturgy is still used in Eastern Orthodox churches. Basil’s theology of deification emphasizes the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in making humans partakers of the divine nature.

Kathryn Knight Sonntag earned a BA in English and a BS in environmental studies before earning her MLA in landscape architecture and environmental planning. Her thesis focused on the role of the transcendent in landscapes and greatly informs her creative pursuits. She works as a freelance writer and landscape designer, and serves as the poetry editor for Wayfare Magazine. Her work centers on language as a powerful technology capable of manipulating ideas, transforming concepts, and achieving a specific vision. Sonntag’s scholarship builds upon ideas related to the role of language in shaping our understanding of the world and our relationship to it. Sonntag’s research delves into the archetype of the Divine Mother and the necessity of returning to her wisdom for the planet’s restoration. Drawing from thinkers like Elaine Showalter, Ursula K. Le Guin, and Jungian analyst Clarissa Pinkola Estés, she examines the suppressed experiences of women and the consequences of disconnecting from what she terms “wild nature.” Sonntag argues that a limited, male-centric view of nature has contributed to environmental degradation and that amplifying the voice of women is crucial for healing the world.

McKay Moore is a speaker and scholar affiliated with the Mormon Transhumanist Association (MTA), exploring the intersection of Mormon theology and transhumanist thought. His work delves into the theological implications of post-humanism, particularly within the unique context of Mormon beliefs about divine progression and the potential for humanity to achieve godhood. Moore’s research is deeply rooted in the Mormon concept of an eternal cycle of creation, where beings evolve into gods who then create new sentient beings. Moore’s presentations often address complex issues such as the 'control problem’ in artificial intelligence (AI) and how Mormon theology might offer a unique perspective on aligning AI with human values. Drawing on the work of thinkers like Nick Bostrom, he analyzes capability and behavioral control methods for managing advanced AI, exploring how these approaches relate to the Mormon 'plan of salvation’ as a post-human solution. His work seeks to bridge the gap between cutting-edge technological advancements and theological frameworks.

Origen of Alexandria (c. 184–253 AD) was an early Christian scholar, ascetic, and theologian. He was one of the most influential figures in early Christian theology and philosophy, known for his allegorical interpretation of Scripture. Born to Christian parents in Alexandria, Origen became head of the catechetical school there at age eighteen. He was extraordinarily prolific, producing biblical commentaries, theological treatises, and apologetic works. His Contra Celsum is a major defense of Christianity against pagan criticism. Origen taught that through communion with the divine, humans may rise to become divine—not only in Jesus but in all who believe and enter upon the life that Jesus taught. While some of his speculative ideas were later condemned, his influence on Christian thought, particularly on human potential for transformation and union with God, remains profound.

Randall Paul is a theorist deeply engaged with questions of value alignment, particularly within the context of Mormon cosmology and transhumanist thought. His work explores the nature of intelligence, divine purpose, and eternal sociality, drawing on Latter-day Saint theology while also critically examining its relationship with traditional Christian influences. Paul’s perspective is rooted in the belief that intelligences have always existed as individual, self-aware entities with infinite memories and a capacity for dynamic social interaction. Paul challenges conventional interpretations of the glory of God, positing that it lies not merely in intelligence itself, but in the capacity of intelligences to freely love and interact with one another. He suggests that our current mortal existence is an experiment designed to improve our ability to trust and love, preparing us for a more harmonious eternal life. He frames the Mormon Transhumanist Association (MTA) as a microcosm of this process, a space for superhuman entities—or gods—to learn how to better interact and foster mutual love. In his explorations, Paul questions the uncritical embrace of transhumanist ideals of longevity and enhanced capacities, arguing that the fundamental challenge lies in navigating the complexities of freedom and mutual influence within eternal societies. He emphasizes the importance of freely given and received love as the most valuable—and most scarce—resource in the cosmos, suggesting that intelligences exist in societies to expand the possibilities for these experiences. His aim is to provoke reflection on the deeper purposes of existence and the nature of divine love in a transhuman future.