Critique of Max More’s Transhumanism in the Context of the Anthropology of St. Maximus the Confessor

This article is devoted to a critical reflection on the anthropological views of transhumanist Max More from the perspective of the theological anthropology of St. Maximus the Confessor. Transhumanism is a worldview that asserts the possibility of radically enhancing the human being through science and technology. This perspective shapes a new anthropological consciousness in which human nature is viewed as an intermediate stage, subject to radical transformation. Such a perspective requires theological consideration, as it stands in opposition to the Orthodox teaching on the integrity and God-given nature of the human being. In contrast, Orthodox anthropology understands human transformation as the work of Divine grace, accomplished while preserving human nature. The study emphasizes that neither transhumanism nor Orthodox anthropology constitutes a fully systematic doctrine; therefore, a comparison at the level of key concepts—those of More and St. Maximus—allows for a deeper understanding of the fundamental differences between the two approaches. Currently, in discussions on transhumanism, the patristic heritage is virtually absent from modern academic literature. This article analyzes how Max More’s transhumanism can be interpreted in light of the Christian doctrine of the human person as articulated in the theology of St. Maximus the Confessor. The author concludes that there is a fundamental difference between More’s transhumanist vision and St. Maximus the Confessor’s teaching on the human being.