Alexander Thomas

In this discussion, Alexander Thomas, a Senior Lecturer in Media Production at the University of East London and author of The Politics and Ethics of Transhumanism, explores the complexities of transhumanism. He tackles its historical roots, from Enlightenment thinkers to modern tech leaders, and the ethical dilemmas of enhancement. The conversation dives into the marriage of transhumanism and capitalism, highlighting potential elitism, and critiques issues like data totalitarianism and the implications of artificial intelligence on human agency. Thomas advocates for a more inclusive approach to technology.

Dr. Alexander Thomas, scholar of transhumanism and ethics and author of The Politics and Ethics of Transhumanism, explores how libertarian transhumanist fantasies have seeped into real-world techno-authoritarian projects. He traces playful extropian ideas to crypto, surveillance and corporate power. Conversation touches on memetic politics, AI normalization, and infrastructure that could enable totalitarian control.