Sacred Convergence: How Mormonism and Hinduism can inform Transhumanist aspirations

How can Hinduism and Mormonism, taken together, inform how humanity interacts with and develops technology? What underlying spiritual and philosophical ideas from both traditions inform the ethical use of technology to expand human consciousness and experience? In his talk, Evan Rodgers explores ways that Mormon, Hindu, and Transhumanist thought can intersect and enrich one another. Introductory summaries of basic Hindu tenets are provided and specific conversation points between Mormon thought and Hinduism are discussed, including explorations about how these traditions can mutually enrich one another spiritually and philosophically. Brief explorations of contemporary currents within Hindu thought are shared. Spiritual insights from these traditions that can benefit transhumanism and provide a framework for the ethical development and use of technology are examined along with specific technological developments that are of interest to this emerging conversation.

Evan Rodgers is a mental health therapist & spiritual care provider in community behavioral health and a chaplain in the Utah Corrections system. He has worked in behavioral health in various capacities over the last seven years, including work as a support staff for youth in inpatient treatment, as a case manager for adults, youth, and families, and he has assisted with co-managing inpatient and outpatient programs. He received a Masters of Divinity in Professional Counseling from Amridge University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Minor in Religious Studies from the University of Utah. Evan was born in Salt Lake City, Utah and he currently lives in West Valley with his wife and two children. Evan is passionate about inter-faith dialogue and has participated in interfaith roundtables at the University of Utah. Evan also gives guest sermons at different denominations and is a regular guest at the United Congregational Church of Christ in Provo. Evan enjoys studying world religions and has found his spiritual walk to be profoundly enriched by his encounters with various faiths.