Being Human in an Age of Rapid Technological Change: Laing Lecture 2026

‘Being Human in an Age of Rapid Technological Change’ – Laing Lecture 2026

It is no secret that our world has become irrevocably transformed by technology. Technology has moved from just a handful of useful objects that might make our lives easier to making up the central environment in which we dwell. What is more, technology seems to be transforming not only our world but ourselves as well. We all feel a strong sense of anxiety; that we are somehow being pulled along faster and faster and cannot control this sense of technological advancement even when its promises are also met with failures and sacrifices along the way. How do we respond to these changes and indeed these dramatic challenges?

This years Laing lecture explores major technological developments such as biotechnology and AI, offering theological guidance on how we can remain human and flourish in an increasingly technological world.

This is a free event and sign up is only required if you would like to have dinner at London School of Theology (at 6pm) before making your way to Emmanuel Church.

About the speaker – Dr Michael Burdett

Dr Michael Burdett is a Professor of Christian Theology at the University of Nottingham and Director of the Centre for Theology, Philosophy and Religion. Michael’s research explores the intersection of theology, philosophy, science and technology, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence and transhumanism.