EP15 | Is AI Devaluing the Soul? A New Defense for Being Human

Is technology changing what it means to be human? Today I sit down with Matthew Burford (Founder of Tactical Faith) to discuss why modern apologetics is shifting from "winning arguments" to "reclaiming wonder."As we move deeper into the age of AI and digital distraction, Burford argues that we are facing a crisis of disembodiment. Drawing on neuroscientist Ian McGilchrist’s work on the left and right brain, we explore how the "Left-Brain" obsession with data and control is hollowing out our spiritual lives—and why the physical, "Right-Brain" practices of the Church and the Eucharist are the only cure for modern anxiety.Inside the Episode:The Evolution of Apologetics: Why the "syllogisms" of the 90s aren't reaching Gen Z.The AI Threat: How Large Language Models (LLMs) force us to redefine human uniqueness.The Master and His Emissary: Applying Ian McGilchrist’s brain hemisphere theory to theology.The School of Attention: How the Eucharist retrains our minds to see reality truthfully.Re-enchanting the World: Moving from abstract ideas to concrete, lived practices.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction: Meeting Matthew Burford2:15 – What is Tactical Faith? Bridge between Ivory Tower & Church6:42 – The Shift: From Evidence-Based to Story-Driven Apologetics11:30 – Why "winning the argument" isn't enough anymore15:45 – The "Fragmented Self": Addressing Gen Z & Alpha20:10 – Living in a Post-Christian "Disillusionment"28:45 – Cultural Liturgies: What the Mall taught us about worship35:10 – AI & The Crisis of Embodiment: What makes us unique?41:30 – The Danger of Normalizing Artificial Relationships45:20 – The Eucharist as a "Shared Attention Habit"51:40 – Left-Brain vs. Right-Brain: Ian McGilchrist’s Impact57:15 – Reclaiming the Mystery: How the Church can serve the world nowResources Mentioned:Tactical Faith: https://tacticalfaith.com/Ian McGilchrist - The Master and His EmissaryWhat do you think is the biggest threat AI poses to our humanity? Let us know in the comments below!Take the Next Step in Your EducationIf this conversation has sparked a desire to go deeper into the intersection of theology, science, and the soul, I want to invite you to explore our advanced programs. Equip yourself to engage the modern world with intellectual rigour and spiritual depth. Explore Our Degree Programs Here: https://degrees.soulscienceministries.com/#Apologetics #FaithAndTech #IanMcGilchrist #Christianity #AI #Philosophy #Theology #TacticalFaith