Mormons, what do you think of this community?

Question

This is not a link to anti-Mormon propaganda. I have an interest in the transhumanist philosophy and I came to this site a few months ago. I see that there are a couple of you on now and wanted to see what you thought of it.

Mormon Transhumanist Association:

http://transfigurism.org/community/

You can type Mormon +transhuman and it should lead you to it.

Transhumanist feel that technology advances are occurring at an exponential rate. Eventually the machines will surpass humans. There is some philosophies of merging with the machines, basically becoming cyborgs.

Check out transhuman on wikipedia.

This is from Wikipedia:

(sometimes abbreviated >H or H+) is an international intellectual and cultural movement supporting the use of new sciences and technologies to enhance human mental and physical abilities and aptitudes, and ameliorate what it regards as undesirable and unnecessary aspects of the human condition, such as disease, aging, and death. Transhumanist thinkers study the possibilities and consequences of developing and using human enhancement techniques and other emerging technologies for these purposes. Possible dangers, as well as benefits, of powerful new technologies that might radically change the conditions of human life are also of concern to the transhumanist movement.[1]

Beta,

That is what I am trying to figure out ;) They seemed to have merged the philosophy with religion. I am wondering how other Mormons see this. Do you think it would be going against the teachings or doctrine of your beliefs?

Answer 1

Clearly the website is not supported or sanctioned by the Mormon faith, but that does not mean they would discourage studying and theorizing. Mormons are encouraged to study all areas and become educated people. They are also encouraged to make a contribution to their communities and society. I didn't look at this website in much detail, but as long as they aren't attempted to remove free agency from mankind and aren't overlooking the significance of the atonement of the Savior, Jesus Christ, then their probably fine. There are times when members of any church get caught up in odd or different ideas and which leads them away from their core beliefs. The Mormon faith does constantly remind it's members of the basics and not losing sight of the greater picture in search of fringe ideas. The leaders of the church really stick to the basics. Science is fine to study, but you must not lose focus. Anyway, just my two cents.

Answer 2

I am kind of tired after reading the first bit of that website. It is probably because it is 1:30 a.m. and the end of a work shift. I would say, it's ok to use technology to a point, but the Resurrection will be brought about by Jesus Christ and not by scientists and doctors acting as a group. They may be acting under His direction, however, at a future time.

Answer 3

Sorry, you'll have to describe it. I don't do the "click on unknown links" thing anymore.

Edit: Hmmm, interesting. What's it got to do with Mormons though?

Edit: Yes, unless it is coming from the prophet, it is not church doctrine. It sounds like interesting stuff though.

Answer 4

Oh boy, We are going to have "Mormon Science" now?