From Directed Evolution (DE) to Artificial Intelligence (AI): Two Transhumanist Technologies from the Perspective of Saint Thomas Aquinas
Journal
Lumen: A Journal of Catholic Studies
ISSN
2307-2458
Publisher
Fu Jen Catholic University
Date Issued
2026-07
Type
text::Non-primary product
Abstract
Human spiritual nature makes man capable of overcoming his precariousness through technology. Thus, since his beginningsm he has striven to improve himself and build a better world. However, the scientific and technological developments achieved in the last three decades have produced approaches that include the fact that man intends to overcome the limits imposed by nature. Within transhumanism: directed evolution (DE), and artificial intelligence (AI) are part of the technological resources that have acquired relevance in this context, and to which I have dedicated somo of the research that that I have done in recent years. The purpose of this paper is to briefly present the most relevant aspects of this research, in light of the philosophical principles proposed by Saint Thomas Aquinas several centuries before these advances were achieved. The intention is twofold: to show the perennial validity of Aquinas´s metaphysical and antropological foundations, as well as his ability to offer answers to these and many other current challenges.
License
Acceso Restringido.
URL License
How to cite
Ocampo, M. (2026). From Directed Evolution (DE) to Artificial Intelligence (AI): Two Transhumanist Technologies from the Perspective of Saint Thomas Aquinas. Lumen: A Journal of Catholic Studies, 14(2), 103-132.
Table of contents
I. Introduction -- II. Transhumanism from the Perspective of St. Thomas Aquinas -- III. Directed Evolution from the Perspective of St. Thomas Aquinas -- IV. Artificial Intelligence from the Perspective of St. Thomas Aquinas -- V. Conclusion.