On this episode of Homebrewed Christianity, Tripp welcomes renowned Catholic theologian Ilia Delio to discuss her latest book, 'The Not Yet God,' and delve into the intersections of consciousness, evolution, and modern technology. Explore how scientific advancements challenge traditional theological views, drawing on the philosophies of Teilhard de Chardin and Carl Jung. The conversation navigates the complexities of AI's role in human existence, tech's influence on our understanding of the divine, and the necessity for a theological revolution to match our tech-driven world.
Below you will find a complete outline of the conversation.
Bridging Divinity and Technology
In this exhilarating discussion with Ilia Delio, we are taken on a profound journey through the intersection of theology, science, and the future of humanity in the shadow of burgeoning technological advancements. Delio, known for her insightful work on integrating science and religion, shares invigorating ideas from her latest book, "The Not Yet God," delving into how our traditional understanding of divinity must evolve in the face of our rapidly changing world.
The Not Yet God: Reimagining Divinity in an Evolving Universe
Delio's book, "The Not Yet God," explores the tantalizing premise that our conventional theological frameworks are inadequately equipped to address the philosophical and spiritual implications of our current scientific knowledge and technological capabilities. It argues for a dynamic understanding of God that evolves with our expanding consciousness and technological advancements.
Technology as the New Cosmology
Delio articulates an intriguing perspective on technology, viewing it not merely as a set of tools but as a new cosmology that has replaced the heavens as the source of the infinite and the mysterious. She draws parallels between the awe once reserved for the stars and the modern human's fascination with the boundless potential of cyberspace. This digital universe, according to Delio, offers a new realm for the expression of the collective unconscious—a space where humanity can explore deeper connections and universal consciousness.
The Challenge of the Global Super Organism
An essential aspect of Delio's thought is the idea that technology is steering us toward becoming a new kind of organism—a global super organism. This shift requires us to reconsider our identity and place in the universe, urging us to reflect on how we can use technology to further human unity and the common good. However, she warns of the dangers of unreflective engagement with technology, emphasizing the need for a theological revolution that aligns our technological evolution with spiritual and ethical values.
The Trinity and the Future of Humanity
Delio also reexamines the concept of the Trinity, suggesting it symbolizes the dynamic openness of God to becoming fully realized within us. This vision challenges us to embrace our role in the ongoing "trinitization" process, allowing divine love to guide us toward a future of greater unity and communal harmony.
Embrace the New, Preserve the Core
Throughout the conversation, Delio and Tripp Fuller discuss the importance of evolving our religious narratives to address the complexities of modern life, including our relationship with technology. They advocate for a balance between embracing new insights and preserving the core values that foster meaningful connections and ethical living.
A Call to Action for the Digital Age
The dialogue between Delio and Fuller serves as a clarion call for humanity to engage deeply with the spiritual dimensions of our techno-scientific era. It challenges us to reimagine our understanding of divinity, humanity, and community in ways that foster true growth and harmony.
In "The Not Yet God," Ilia Delio offers a visionary blueprint for navigating the turbulent waters of our times. By integrating the insights of theology, science, and technology, she invites us on a transformative journey towards a future where technology serves as a bridge rather than a barrier to deeper spiritual and communal engagement.
Ilia Delio, OSF, PhD is a Franciscan Sister of Washington, DC, and American theologian specializing in science and religion, with interests in evolution, physics, and neuroscience and the import of these for theology.
Ilia currently holds the Josephine C. Connelly Endowed Chair in Theology at Villanova University and is the author of twenty books, including Care for Creation (coauthored with Keith Warner and Pamela Woods) which won two Catholic Press Book Awards in 2009, first place for social concerns and second place in spirituality. Her book The Emergent Christwon a third-place Catholic Press Book Award in 2011 for the area of Science and Religion. Her recent books include The Unbearable Wholeness of Being: God, Evolution and the Power of Love (Orbis, 2013), which received the 2014 Silver Nautilus Book Award and a third-place Catholic Press Association Award for Faith and Science. Ilia holds two honorary doctorates, one from St. Francis University in 2015 and one from Sacred Heart University in 2020.
Check out her latest book - The Not-Yet God.