RELIGION AND MORALITY IN THE CONTEXT OF TRANSHUMANISM

Introduction. The article explores the philosophy of transhumanism, which became widespread at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries. The author analyzes how transhumanism, rooted in the traditions of humanism, seeks to justify the radical transformation of nature. traditions of humanism, seeks to justify the radical transformation of human nature, achieved with the help of modern technologies. of human nature, achieved with the help of modern technologies. Particular attention special attention is paid to issues of morality and religion in the context of a potential transition from transhumanism to posthumanism. transhumanism to posthumanism. Content. A key idea of transhumanism is that the development of technology can not only improve human capabilities, but also lead to the emergence of a new form of intelligent life, the so-called “posthuman”. Human beings have long been in a state of constant transformation. From the first tools of labor to digital technology, each invention has not only changed the environment, but also has affected the very nature of the human. Today, with the development of neurotechnology, genetic engineering and cybernetics, the boundaries between the biological and the artificial are becoming increasingly blurred. This transition calls into question the preservation of traditional values such as morality and religion, which for centuries have defined human existence as precisely human. Religion in the context of transhumanism is viewed from two opposing perspectives: it may lose its relevance as scientific progress offers rational explanations of the world, replacing faith in the supernatural; technologies themselves may become an object of worship, especially if artificial intelligence or cybernetic beings are perceived as something superior beyond human comprehension. In the context of transhumanism, morality also comes into question: if technology makes it possible to eliminate disease, suffering and social conflicts, traditional ethical norms may become irrelevant. Artificial intelligence, capable of making «perfect» decisions, can save people from moral dilemmas. Or a human being, even in an «enhanced» version, will still strive for something more, than just a rational existence? Conclusions. By proposing radical new approaches to understanding human beings and their future, transhumanism challenges the sustainability of traditional values of humanism, morality and religion. The author emphasizes the need to comprehend the ethical and philosophical consequences of technological progress, which is fraught with the loss of human identity.