Metareligion
Metareligion is a concept proposed by Christopher Michael Langan in his 2018 paper Metareligion as the Human Singularity, published in Cosmos and History: The Journal of Natural and Social Philosophy. In this context, metareligion is defined as a unifying framework that integrates diverse religious traditions within a higher-order “metalanguage” capable of reconciling them with science and philosophy. Langan argues that traditional religions, limited by dualistic assumptions, lack the conceptual means to address the existential challenges posed by technological and social change. By embedding religion in a logically rigorous metaphysical system—specifically his Cognitive-Theoretic Model of the Universe (CTMU)—metareligion would provide a coherent spiritual foundation for humanity. According to Langan, such a framework could enable a “Human Singularity,” a collective awakening to shared spiritual identity, as a preferable alternative to the dehumanizing trajectory of a purely technological singularity.
| Aspect | Human Singularity | Tech Singularity |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A collective spiritual awakening in which humanity realizes a shared metaphysical identity. | A rapid acceleration of technological progress leading to systemic transformation beyond human control. |
| Philosophical Basis | Spiritual monism: unification of science and religion through a “metareligion” grounded in the CTMU. | Physical/material monism: mechanization and de-spiritualization of human identity. |
| Distribution of Power | Decentralized, empowering individuals through shared spiritual awareness and responsibility. | Centralized, concentrating wealth, power, and technology in the hands of elites. |
| Social Outcome | Cooperative society based on freedom, responsibility, and spiritual coherence. | Hive-like social order characterized by oligarchic control and mass disempowerment. |
| Relation to Religion | Requires a unifying metareligion to reconcile diverse traditions and integrate spirituality with science. | Often dismisses or marginalizes religion, favoring secular or technocratic models. |
| Prototypes/Influences | Pierre Teilhard de Chardin’s “Omega Point” and visions of mass spiritual transformation. | John von Neumann’s prediction of incomprehensibly rapid technological progress. |
| Overall Evaluation | Seen by Langan as the preferable evolutionary outcome for humanity’s survival and dignity. | Interpreted as a dehumanizing trajectory that threatens human sovereignty and identity. |
