How to fall in love with humanity again
Many people today express disdain for humanity, citing environmental destruction and technological overreach, with some even advocating for human extinction. This anti-human sentiment is increasingly linked to transhumanism, a movement seeking to use technology to evolve humans into a more advanced form. Philosopher Shannon Vallor argues that while classical humanism has flaws, rejecting humanity entirely is a misguided response that overlooks our potential for moral and social progress.
- ▪A growing number of people feel disgusted by humanity, blaming it for environmental destruction and space pollution.
- ▪Anti-human sentiment is fueling interest in transhumanism, which aims to enhance or replace human biology with technology.
- ▪Shannon Vallor contends that anti-humanism is not enlightenment but a symptom of social fragmentation and a misunderstanding of human potential.
- ▪Classical humanism has failed to adapt to modern challenges, but Vallor believes a reformed humanism can still guide ethical progress.
- ▪Transhumanist visions include brain implants, AI-guided morality, and digital immortality, promising a utopian, post-human future.
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Future PerfectHow to fall in love with humanity again Tech culture has made contempt for humanity feel enlightened. We can do better.by Sigal SamuelMay 17, 2026, 12:00 PM UTCShareGiftPete Gamlen for VoxSigal Samuel is a senior reporter for Vox’s Future Perfect. She writes primarily about the future of consciousness, tracking advances in artificial intelligence and neuroscience and their staggering ethical implications. Before joining Vox, Sigal was the religion editor at the Atlantic.A lot of humans are feeling very down on humanity these days. Maybe you’ve met them. Or maybe you’re one of them.I’m talking about those who look around and say: Humans are destroying the planet — causing climate change, making other species go extinct.
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