• Unveiling the Veil: Rediscovering Enchantment after Secularism
    Aug 26 2023

    In this thought-provoking episode Nik and Anthony delve into the captivating realm of myth, secularism, and the resurgence of enchantment through a Christian lens.

    https://www.amazon.com/Myth-Disenchantment-Magic-Modernity-Sciences/dp/022640336X

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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • The Challenge of Preaching in a Post-Christian World
    Jun 28 2023

    In this episode, Nik and Anthony tackle the challenge of preaching in today's cultural context. They question the effectiveness of "relevant" sermons and propose a simpler approach: letting the scripture passage and redemptive narrative set the tone for preaching. Join them as they explore the importance of exegeting both scripture and our cultural moment to meet the congregation's needs. 

    Links:
    https://theopolisinstitute.com/of-preaching-and-newspapers/

    https://www.firstthings.com/web-exclusives/2016/09/whats-preaching-for

    https://theopolisinstitute.com/the-end-of-premium-mediocre-church/

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    36 mins
  • Theology and Architecture - CM Howell Interview
    May 17 2023

    Join us on this episode of Discerning the Forms as we explore the fascinating relationship between theology and architecture. Our guest CM Howell, philosopher and theologian, shares his insights on the different styles of architecture and their theological underpinnings. We delve into Bergmann's threefold distinction of "doing" theology and architecture, which includes theology "of," "as," and "in" architecture. We also discuss the concept of "place" versus "space" in architecture, as well as the significance of proportion in classical architecture and its relation to theology. From medieval to modern styles, we take a journey through history to understand how theology has influenced architectural design and how architecture influences or sets the stage of culture. 

    Resources:

    https://www.amazon.com/Architecture-Theology-Place-Murray-Rae-ebook/dp/B08W2R1GZ8

    https://www.routledge.com/Religion-Space-and-the-Environment/Bergmann/p/book/9781412862943

    https://www.routledge.com/Nature-Space-and-the-Sacred-Transdisciplinary-Perspectives/Scott-Bergmann-Bedford-Strohm/p/book/9781032243382

    https://www.amazon.com/Spaces-Sacred-Place-Memory-Identity/dp/0801868610

    Timestamps

    0:00:32 - Conversation on Theology and Architecture between Nick and Charles Howell

    0:04:21 -Subject: Exploring the Relationship Between Contemplation and Architecture

    0:07:22 - Theology of Architecture: Exploring the Relationship between Place, Space, and Theology

    0:12:56 - Conversation on Theology of Architecture

    0:15:43 - Topic: Exploring the Meaning of Architecture

    0:18:30 - Heading: Exploring the Ethical and Semiotic Aspects of Architecture

    0:25:42 - Conversation on the Influence of Architecture and Technological Advancements

    0:28:37 - Discussion on the Role of Architecture in Christianity

    0:37:05 - Discussion on the Influence of Theology on Architecture

    0:43:44 - Conversation on Qubits, Metric System, and American Christianity

    0:45:58 - Heading: Exploring the Impact of Economics on Social Identity and Social Imaginary

    0:48:39 - Conversation on the Limitations of Architecture and the Creative Process of Building a Cathedral

    0:51:09 - Conversation on the Evolution of Church Architecture

    0:56:18 - Heading: Architectural Achievements in Modern Styles: A Discussion on Technological Advancements and Theological Reflection

    0:59:41 - Discussion on the Evolution of Architecture from Medieval to Contemporary Times

    1:01:36 - Heading: Exploring the Role of Architects in Shaping Culture

    1:07:37 - Conversation on the Impact of Architecture on Religious Spaces

    1:18:52 - Discussion on the Impact of Space on Discipleship and Thinking

    1:22:26 - Conversation on Church Design and the Impact of Technology on Society


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    1 hr and 30 mins
  • Chat GPT World - Interview with Jamison Digital
    Apr 5 2023

    In this episode we explore the world of AI technology and its impact on our lives. In this episode, we are joined by Jamison Wight, a talented coder who offers a wide range of services for web development and design.

    With over a decade of experience in the tech industry, Jamison has witnessed firsthand the incredible advancements in AI technology. He brings a unique perspective to our conversation as we delve into the pros, cons, and dangers of AI advancement.

    During our discussion, Jamison shares his expertise on the benefits of AI, including increased efficiency and productivity, as well as the potential downsides such as job loss and ethical concerns. We also explore the importance of responsible innovation and the dangers of unchecked AI development.

    In addition to his vast knowledge of AI, Jamison's business offers a variety of web development and design services. From responsive design to custom CMS and web application development, Jamison and his team at Jamison Digital can transform any outdated website into a sleek and modern online presence that truly stands out.

    Jamison Digital Contact:

    Email: jamisonw.wight@gmail.com

    Phone: 4174029696


    Timestamps:

    0:00:33

    "Exploring the Impact of Chat GPT on the Future of Art and Writing with Jameson, a Freelance Full Stack Developer"

    0:03:39

    Conversation Summary: Benefits and Potential Problems of Chatbot Technology

    0:06:26

    Discussion on the Potential Challenges of Automated Coding

    0:08:23

    Conversation on the Impact of Chat GPT on Human Communication and Education

    0:13:58

    "Exploring the Impact of AI on Human Creativity"

    0:18:53

    Heading: Exploring the Unique Quality of Human Art and the Impact of CGI in Movies

    0:20:47

    AI Script Writing: Exploring the Merits of Christopher Nolan and the Rise of AI Technology

    0:23:56

    Discussion on the Impact of Technology on Everyday Life

    0:26:10

    "Exploring the Ethical Implications of AI Technology"

    0:34:13

    Conversation on the Impact of AI and Transhumanism

    0:36:55

    "Exploring the Potential of Chat GPT and Its Impact on Businesses"

    0:38:27

    Conversation on the Impact of AI on Human Communication

    0:41:08

    Conversation on the Impact of Technology on Social Interaction

    0:46:42

    Conversation on Social Media and Its Impact on Interactions

    0:48:44

    Heading: Discussion on the Use of Technology in Society

    0:50:56

    Conversation on Nihilism, Technology, and Chat GPT

    0:54:25

    Conversation Summary: Building a Mario Game with GPT-3

    0:56:34

    Discussion on the Impact of AI on Human Development

    1:01:55

    Discussion on the Role of Christ in Artificial Intelligence

    1:03:48

    Conversation Summary: Exploring the Dan Prompt and Nephilim

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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • ChatGPT and the Future of Being Human
    Mar 22 2023

    Join Nik and Anthony in their latest podcast as they dive into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence and the rising popularity of ChatGPT. Together, they explore the endless possibilities and potential pitfalls of this cutting-edge technology, all while keeping a sharp Christian philosophical perspective in mind. Don't miss out on this mind-bending discussion!

    Links to books mentioned:
    https://www.amazon.com/Digimodernism-Technologies-Dismantle-Postmodern-Reconfigure/dp/1441175288

    https://www.amazon.com/Nihilism-Technology-Nolen-Gertz/dp/1786607034/ref=sr_1_1?amp&keywords=nihilism+and+technology&&&&sr=8-1

    Timestamps

    0:00:32
    Conversation on Chat GPT, AI, and Its Potential Effects on Society
    0:03:58
    Exploring AI Chatbots: My Experience with GPT-3
    0:06:35
    Exploring the Potential of Chat GPT for Historical and Theological Research
    0:10:00
    Conversation on Artificial Intelligence and Sentience
    0:12:03
    Conversation on GPT-3 and Chat PDF Applications
    0:14:15
    Conversation on the Uses of Chat GPT AI Technology
    0:16:50
    Conversation on the Impact of Technology on AI Detection
    0:21:09
    Heading: The Impact of AI Generated Voice on Society
    0:23:43
    Discussion on the Impact of Technology on Authenticity and Skepticism
    0:26:11
    Conversation on Digimodenism and the Impact of Digital Culture on Art
    0:28:45
    Discussion on Authenticity and Technology in the Digital Age
    0:35:10
    Discussion on Human Flourishing and Automation
    0:38:55
    Discussion on Theology and Technology: John Milbank's Theology and Social Theory
    0:44:36
    Discussion on Social Media Authenticity and Political Posts
    0:46:11
    Heading: Connecting Through Shared Interests: A Conversation About Human Connection in the Digital Age
    0:48:10
    Heading: The Importance of Church Participation in Embodying True Humanity
    0:52:16
    "Exploring the Role of Embodiment in Christianity"
    0:54:52
    "Exploring the Potential of Chat GPT and Its Impact on Human Discernment"

    Highlight

     My main concern is to protect our humanity. I have noticed how technology, even with its current capabilities, can influence my behavior and desires, similar to what John Millbank describes in how other discourses can shape theology. I am transparent about the fact that I am often guided by my desire to use technology, whether it is my phone, laptop, or video games. It seems that my heart is easily swayed by these things, possibly due to certain behavioral patterns or emotional needs.

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    58 mins
  • Science and Alchemy
    Feb 8 2023

    I science alchemy? In this episode we discuss scientism and it's ties to alchemy and theosophy. We basically make the case that science has always been religious and is fueled by religion. We also explore Anthony's broad use of the word "magic" in the vein of Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. 

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    1 hr and 16 mins
  • Post-Metaphysical Theology & The Trinitarian Turn
    Dec 23 2022

    What comes after the exhaustion of metaphysics? C.M. Howell explores how Trinitarian theology took the new metaphysical turn and what theology is up to now. 

    C.M. Howell holds a graduate degree in Theology from The University of Oxford and is currently pursuing his PhD in theological aesthetics, with specific interest into the post-metaphysical theology of Ederhard Jungel as it relates to socio-cultural issues such as secularization, disenchantment, and cultural pluralism. 

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    1 hr and 49 mins
  • Metaphysics
    Dec 7 2022

    Where do we go after modernism and postmodernism? Metaphysics! Anthony and Nik sketch out some metaphysical options.

    Hellenism and the history of metaphysics:

    https://www.scribd.com/read/434071353/Reality-From-Metaphysics-to-Metapolitics


    A great introduction to Thomism:

    https://www.scribd.com/read/433020760/Aquinas-A-Beginner-s-Guide


    And this:

    https://www.scribd.com/audiobook/354319829/Thomas-Aquinas-Understand-the-Universal-Teacher-s-Greatest-Ideas


    Dooyeweerd on "ground motives":

    https://dooy.info/gm.html

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    1 hr and 11 mins