The Gospel According to the Algorithm: AI, Medicine, & the Post-Human Promise

In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & John explore the intersection of AI, medicine, and Orthodox theology. They discuss the ethical implications of AI in healthcare, the allure of transhumanism, & the importance of community & communion in true healing. The conversation emphasizes the need for a return to the Orthodox understanding of the person, which transcends mere data & optimization, advocating for a holistic approach to health that includes spiritual dimensions.Sound Bites:"Transhumanism seeks perfection without God.""True healing is found in the Orthodox tradition.""Fear of death drives the transhumanist agenda."Takeaways:AI is transforming medicine, but raises ethical concerns.The post-human gospel offers a false promise of immortality.Transhumanism seeks perfection without God.True healing is found in the Orthodox tradition.Digital health tools can lead to a new form of idolatry.The Orthodox Church teaches the importance of communion & community.Modern medicine often prioritizes data over the person.Theosis is the ultimate goal of Orthodox healing.Fear of death drives the transhumanist agenda.Real healing involves surrendering to God, not optimizing oneself.Chapters:00:00 The Gospel According to the Algorithm06:37 The Rise of AI in Medicine13:30 Bioethics Without Christ Through the Lifecycle16:35 Transhumanism & the Promise of Immortality20:22 Tin Foil & Apple Symbolism21:39 Transhumanism & the Fear of Death22:20 The Institutionalization of Thanatophobia25:20 Embracing Freedom from Fear Through the Church26:51 Digital Asceticism & Health Tracking29:37 Continuous Glucose Monitors are NOT Repentance34:20 The Parody of Sainthood in Modernity39:00 Reclaiming Real Sacraments41:53 The True Nature of Humanity44:20 Closing Thoughts & Looking Ahead45:41 OutroSupport the Show with a One-Time or Recurring donation: ⁠⁠coff.ee/OrthodoxHealth⁠⁠Work with Dr. Mike: ⁠⁠https://www.OrthodoxHealth.com⁠⁠Pre-Order Orthodoxy & The Medicine of the Future: ⁠⁠https://www.orthodoxhealth.com/book⁠⁠Intro & Outro Music: St. John of Chicago Orthodox Church Choir (Arkansas) - Please support their building fund by buying the whole album here:⁠⁠ ⁠https://stjohnorthodoxchurch.bandcamp.com/album/come-ye-faithful-building-fundraiser⁠⁠