Overview:
Ben, a Veritas Forum board member, welcomes the audience and highlights the personal and practical significance of the forum’s discussions, encouraging participants to engage with the big questions presented by the speakers.

Program Structure:
The event consists of two main sections: a moderated conversation with the speakers followed by a Q&A session. After a short break, a cocktail hour called “Questions and Cocktails” will take place, where attendees can engage in further discussions with the speakers and other participants.

Q&A Participation:
Audience members are encouraged to submit questions via text message to a provided phone number. The moderator, Scott Sherman, will select questions from the submissions to ask the speakers during the Q&A segment.

Introduction of Scott Sherman:
Ben introduces Scott Sherman, the host of the event, highlighting his various roles as Executive Director of the Newbigin House of Studies, member of the Newbigin faculty at Western Theological Seminary, teaching pastor at City Church in San Francisco, and more.

Imagination Crisis in Society:
Peter Thiel observes a crisis of imagination in society, with many fearing a bleak future where technology harms humanity. Science fiction movies often depict a future where technology negatively impacts people, contributing to the lack of confidence in a better future.

Technological Progress and Human Agency:
Thiel emphasizes the importance of technology in shaping a better future but disagrees with the notion that progress will occur without human intervention. He believes that the future is not predetermined but rather a result of choices and actions taken in the present.

Left-Brain Thinking vs. Imagination:
Scott Sherman highlights the privileging of left-brain thinking, such as analytical reasoning, over imagination and big-picture thinking in Western society. This has resulted in a devaluation of the imagination, seen as a leisure activity rather than a necessity.

The Importance of Imagination and the Arts:
Sherman argues that neglecting imagination and the arts has had negative consequences and that society should prioritize these aspects. He believes that imagination, music, and metaphor are crucial for a healthy and balanced society.

Ian McGilchrist’s Theory:
Sherman references Ian McGilchrist’s book, “The Master and His Emissary,” which explores the concept of schizophrenia as a result of the separation of the brain hemispheres. He suggests that Western culture exhibits signs of “left-hemisphere dominance,” where rationalism and small-scale thinking are prioritized at the expense of imagination.

Academic Nuances:
Sherman acknowledges that his presentation is a broad overview and that there are academic complexities and nuances to consider. He notes that a leading brain scientist expressed reservations about the simplicity of his argument, highlighting the need for further discussion and research.

Secular Dystopia and Diminished Imagination:
Secular dystopia, a modern worldview, sees things getting worse, resembling the 19th-century premillennial view of a declining world. Progress and secular dystopia coexist awkwardly, inhibiting imagination. Knowing progress will happen leads to complacency, while expecting dystopia leads to self-preservation.

Technological Progress and Dystopian Portrayals:
Technological advancements have not met expectations (e.g., no flying cars). Many portrayals of technology in popular culture are dystopian.

Contrarian Optimism and Christian Perspective:
Leslie Newbigin’s quote highlights the Christian perspective that focuses on Jesus’ resurrection as the foundational event. Christian optimism and pessimism are not based on feelings but on the belief in Jesus’ resurrection. Christians strive to bring signs of the future, as seen in Jesus’ resurrection, into their work and world.

Science, Technology, and Progress:
Both Christian and scientific worldviews believe that every moment in history is unique and that there is a sense of progress. Science and technology bring new inventions that mark definite progress.

Rivalry between Science and Religion:
Science and religion sometimes become rivals because they use similar language and share common ground. Both claim that the future will be different from the present, which is an uncommon perspective.

The Cyclical View of History and the Rise of Marxism:
Traditionally, people believed that the future would be similar to the present, with no significant changes. Marxism and politics also shared this view, envisioning a future vastly different from the present.

The Importance of a Different Future:
Conceiving a future different from the present is crucial for political discourse and prevents the present government from being seen as all-powerful. The present is always an alternative to the future, ensuring a non-closed political system.

The Disillusionment with Modern Liberal Social Democracy:
The failure of modern liberal social democracy to deliver Utopia has led to disillusionment in UK politics. People feel that governments and civil service wield the real power, regardless of who is elected.

The Jewish Influence on the Idea of Radical Change:
The idea of a radically new future originated from Jewish eschatology, the belief in a new moment or a messianic age. Marx and Walter Benjamin drew inspiration from this idea, even if they did not believe in God.

Similarities Between Science and History:
Once something is invented or happens, it cannot be recreated in the same way. This similarity raises questions about the convergence of science and history and their shared Judeo-Christian worldview.

The Role of Luck and Chance:
The idea of luck being all-powerful is self-defeating and both atheists and Christians should reject it. Early modern science initially believed it could achieve progress without God, but later versions became more pessimistic. Pessimistic versions of atheism emphasize the role of chance and the eventual limitations imposed by the heat death of the universe.

The Influence of Epicureanism:
Epicureanism, an ancient philosophy, posits that the gods are distant and the world is formed by random atoms swerving in new directions. This philosophy influenced modern atheistic Darwinism and contributed to the idea of random chance.

Epicurean and Marxian Perspectives on Luck and Chance:
Epicurus viewed the universe as governed by chance, with gods unconcerned with human affairs. Low-grade Epicureanism promoted hedonism without concern for the afterlife. Marx opposed Epicureanism, emphasizing collective action and revolution. Marx feared workers’ contentment could hinder revolutionary efforts.

Chance and Human Agency in History:
Historians debate whether history is driven by chance or great leaders. Marx sought revolutionary leaders to shape history according to their will. The 20th century raised questions about the role of individuals in major events.

Navigating Luck and Human Agency in the Future:
The question of luck and chance is difficult to answer definitively. Attributing events to luck or deliberate choices can be subjective. Silicon Valley debates the role of luck versus skill in business success. Two attitudes towards luck exist: viewing it as a fundamental aspect of the universe or as a temporary state.

Balancing Chance and Human Action:
The challenge lies in understanding the interplay between chance and human agency. Recognizing both factors allows for a nuanced understanding of historical events. Accepting luck’s role does not negate the significance of human actions.

Conclusion:
Navigating luck and chance requires acknowledging their influence while recognizing the importance of human agency. Understanding the interplay between these factors helps individuals navigate the uncertainties of the future and make meaningful choices that shape history.

The Problem of Evil and the Rise of Chance:
The traditional Christian doctrine of providence, which sees God as having a supervisory role in the world, has been rejected by many in modern times. The problem of evil, such as earthquakes and diseases, has made it difficult to reconcile the existence of a benevolent God with the suffering in the world. As a result, chance has risen to take the place of God in modern thought, leading to an Epicurean worldview.

Providence and the Vacuum in Theology:
The rejection of providence has created a vacuum in theology, which has been filled by chance or other secular explanations for the world. This vacuum has led to a loss of meaning and purpose in life for many people.

Radical Life Extension and Life After Life After Death:
Peter’s interest in radical life extension and Tom’s concept of life after life after death are two different ways of addressing the problem of death and the desire for immortality. These ideas raise questions about the nature of consciousness, the meaning of life, and the possibility of a future existence beyond the physical body.

The Compatibility of These Ideas:
The compatibility of these ideas is a matter of debate. Some argue that radical life extension and life after life after death are mutually exclusive, while others believe that they can be reconciled. Ultimately, the question of whether these ideas are compatible is a matter of personal belief and interpretation.

Philosophical and Religious Perspectives on Death:
Death is often seen as incompatible with life, and the purpose of life is questioned. Death is often rationalized through mythology, literature, and philosophy. The Christian view sees death as evil and calls for fighting against it. Death is viewed as the last enemy and a denial of the goodness of life.

Theological Reasons for Life Extension and Flourishing:
Some question if there are theological reasons to limit life extension and flourishing. The Christian view sees death as an enemy and calls for fighting against it. The Bible describes people living to old age as a sign of God’s blessing. The answer to death is not to postpone it but to go through and out the other side.

The Resurrection and the New World:
The resurrection is not about life after death but God remaking a physical universe. The idea of immortality for people infected with sin is not desirable. Death may be a way of keeping things moving towards a new world.

Epicurean Views and Accepting Death:
Some argue that accepting death is like accepting the rottenness of the world. Some Christian views discourage thinking about the future and rely on God’s care. Accepting death is not the same as rolling over and giving up the fight against it.

The Royal Society and the Prolongation of Life:
The Royal Society of Science aimed to prolong life in a Christian context. Atheist forms of modern science felt the need to compete with Christianity on this issue.

Practical Considerations for Life Extension:
Life extension is not about a single pill but about incremental advances. Each particular instance of curing diseases or addressing aging seems morally justifiable. The question of how the future can get better is relevant to life extension discussions.

The Relevance of God in Planning the Future:
Human agency and the providence of God are essential in planning the future. The doctrine of the image of God implies that humans are created to reflect God’s image, including the capacity to engage in relationships, build communities, and care for the earth. Christians believe that God wants the world to be run by wise humans who will be held accountable for their actions. Humans should not arrogate themselves against God but recognize their role as image bearers in making appropriate, generous, and imaginative innovations for the future.

Human Agency and the Breaking of Ritualistic Cycles:
Modern humans have broken free from archaic religious systems that emphasized ritual and cyclical patterns. This freedom allows for intentionality, choice, and the ability to plan for the future. The belief in a future that is different from the present motivates people to make plans and take action.

Christianity and the Envisioning of a Better Future:
Christianity has been instrumental in envisioning and bringing about a better future. Historical examples include medical innovations, educational advancements, care for the poor, and cultural contributions such as rhyme in poetry and the development of Western music. The church at its best has played a positive role in re-humanizing society and contributing to the arts.

The Problem of History and Christianity:
The history of religion, particularly Christianity, is complex and often problematic. Terrible things have been done in the name of Christianity, which raises questions about its role in envisioning a better future. Christianity, however, has always predicted its own potential for failure and acknowledges the complexities of its history.

The Idea of Progress and the Role of Christianity:
Christianity has historically motivated people to try to make the world better over time. The Enlightenment and Christianity have both contributed to this idea of progress. Looking back on the past, we can see how bad things were, even as people worked to improve them. The Epicurean theme suggests that if people do not work towards the future, the world will remain stagnant.

Progress and Perception:
The perception of progress is subjective and dependent on one’s historical perspective. The concept of Enlightenment arrogance assumes a sharp divide between the past and the present, disregarding the complexity of history. Judging the past harshly can be a paradoxical result of modern advancements.

The Christian Perspective:
Christian history is not a steady linear progression but includes periods of regression and challenges. The Lord’s Prayer reflects the need for forgiveness and acknowledges humanity’s imperfections.

Rejecting Steady Progress:
Some Christians argue against the idea of steady progress, believing that any attempts to improve society before Jesus’ second coming are futile. This view rejects the notion of human agency and responsibility.

The Gift of the Spirit:
The resurrection of Jesus and the gift of the Holy Spirit empower believers to be agents of change in the present. Acts of kindness, justice, and beauty done in the present are not wasted but contribute to God’s new world.

Hegelianism and Pessimism:
While some embrace a Hegelian view of progress, others see the modern world as a sign of pessimism and stagnation. The term “developed country” can imply a sense of finality and lack of innovation.

Poverty and Economic Manifestations:
Poverty is a multifaceted issue with varying causes and contexts. Technological advancements can contribute to overcoming economic scarcity. Concrete examples of poverty in both developed and developing regions highlight the need for creative solutions.

Unpayable Debts and Systemic Injustice:
Large-scale debts taken on by countries, often under oppressive regimes, have become unpayable. Calls for debt relief and economic justice have been met with resistance, perpetuating systemic inequality. The 2007-2008 financial crisis prompted debt cancellation for wealthy institutions, demonstrating the double standards in addressing economic challenges.

Imagination and Economic Growth:
Failure of imagination and political will hinder economic progress in countries like Tanzania. Fresh approaches can lead to significant economic growth, as seen in Tanzania’s success story. Christian imperative calls for supporting economic development in struggling countries.

Redistribution and Entrepreneurship:
Redistribution of wealth alone is insufficient to solve poverty. It can hinder entrepreneurship and economic growth in some economies. Addressing poverty requires both redistribution and innovative approaches.

Living Forever: A Hypothetical Question:
Living forever poses complex questions about aging, health, and evil. The desire for eternal life should not be based solely on fear of death. Aiming for a meaningful life that one would not want to end may be more fulfilling.

Death and the Fear of Dying:
Fear of death can lead to paradoxical views and acceptance of mortality. Assisted dying raises ethical concerns and should be approached with caution. Resignation and hopelessness towards death should not be normalized.

Innovation and Faith:
Progress and innovation are not exclusive to Christians. God’s image and capacity for creativity are universal human qualities. Christians have a unique role in working with the grain of new creation. Understanding creation and new creation is central to addressing major debates.

The Role of Imagination in Cultivating Virtue:
The imagination can be a powerful tool for swaying people’s thoughts and actions, for better or worse. Cultivating virtue and moral wisdom in society requires considering the character behind imagination and how it can be used.

Imagination and Passion:
Focusing solely on passion as a driving force can be limiting. It’s better to consider what important good one can do and what problems they can solve that others are not addressing.

Imagination and the Larger Context:
Imagination should not be confined to private thoughts but should be connected to the broader reality and the world’s problems. It’s important to think about how one’s imagination fits into the larger story of the world.

Imagination and the Arts:
The arts can create new worlds for people to think differently and see the world in new ways. Creative imagination can grant permission and possibility for people to do, believe, and hope for things they might not have otherwise.

Imagination and Technological Innovation:
Imagination is essential for technological innovation and envisioning a better future. Artists, musicians, and poets can help us imagine a world without war, disease, and poverty.

Criticism of Silicon Valley:
Critiques of Silicon Valley often blame technology for society’s problems, which is a simplistic view. Technology can also highlight the problems with our current environment and infrastructure, which have not kept pace with technological advancements.

Silicon Valley’s Role in Shaping the Future:
Silicon Valley should not be seen as a place where progress is happening too quickly but rather as a place where people are trying to solve important problems and create a better future.

The Triumphalist Critique:
Some people perceive Christian hope as triumphalist, emphasizing the resurrection of Jesus without acknowledging the suffering and crucifixion. Scott Sherman disagrees, stating that triumphalism is not inherent in resurrection-based hope.

The Marks of Love:
The resurrected Jesus bears the marks of the nails, representing the wounds of love and self-giving. This challenges the notion that the resurrection erases the suffering and pain experienced by Jesus.

Cosmic Celebration vs. Triumphalism:
If Jesus’ resurrection is true, it’s not Christian triumphalism but a cosmic celebration. Christians are called to bear witness to this event, even in the face of persecution and death.

Hope vs. Optimism:
Hope is distinct from optimism, which is a feeling of cheerfulness or expectation of good things. Hope persists even in bleak situations, rooted in the belief that a new world has been born through Jesus’ resurrection.

St. Paul’s Perspective:
St. Paul expresses his hope in letters written from prison, demonstrating that hope can exist amidst suffering. He proclaims that the gospel has already been announced to the whole creation through Jesus’ resurrection.

Alexander the Great and the New Testament:
The New Testament phrase “what will profit a man if he gains the entire world and loses his soul?” may have referred specifically to Alexander the Great. This highlights the potential tension between worldly success and spiritual well-being.

Number 33 and Alexander’s Story:
In Livy’s 33rd chapter of the 33rd book, he narrates the triumphant entry of 33-year-old Alexander into Babylon. Christianity’s perspective on Alexander’s life is that it ultimately ended in failure despite his conquests, as he still faced mortality.

Paul’s Retelling of Alexander’s Story:
The Alexander story influenced Hellenistic princelings who saw themselves as potential heirs to his legacy. Paul, in the book of Philippians, retells the story of imperial power, replacing Alexander with Jesus. Paul emphasizes that Jesus, despite dying on a cross, is the true Lord, not Caesar.

Human Agency in Shaping the Future:
Peter emphasizes the importance of human agency in shaping the future. The future is not fixed, and people’s actions can influence whether the “great stagnation” ends or not.

Creating a Just and Flourishing Society:
Expect God to initiate new things pointing towards the kingdom and be open to being part of those new things. Work on important problems that others aren’t addressing. Find your calling within the larger context of the world.