Engineered: The Theological Impact of Discovering Humans Are an Experiment

In the pursuit of knowledge, we try to control and manipulate the world around us, conducting experiments to unveil its secrets. But, what if, in a twist of fate, we find that we are not the observers, but the observed? What if every choice was a variable, every decision a test, and the world we sought to understand was in fact the product of a non human intelligence?

Most world religions posit that humanity was created with intention by a divine being or beings – gods, if you will. For example, in the Abrahamic religions (Christianity, Islam, and Judaism), humans are often seen as created in the image of God, with a unique role in ‘his’ divine plan. The discovery that humans were instead engineered by non-human intelligences, and that we may be a resource of some kind, could directly contradict these deeply held beliefs, leading to a dangerous, theological crisis.

The idea that humans were created by an alien intelligence rather than God would challenge the entire narrative of the Bible, from the story of Adam and Eve to the concept of salvation through Christ. Some denominations might reinterpret these stories metaphorically or allegorically, while others might reject the new information outright, leading to a schism within the Christian faith.

In Islam, humans are also seen as a special creation of Allah, with a specific purpose to worship and serve Him. The idea that humans were created by another species could be seen as blasphemous, potentially leading to a hardening of beliefs and an emphasis on defending the faith against perceived heresies.

Fundamentalist groups might double down on their beliefs, seeing the revelation as a test of faith or even a sign of the apocalypse. This could lead to increased militancy and a rejection of science, technology, and any perceived influence of non-human intelligence. It is also very possible that the crises within these religions could result in an increase of global, religiously inspired terrorism.

Alternatively, the followers of Hinduism and Buddhism may be more adaptable because of their less anthropocentric views of the universe. Nonetheless, the idea of humans as a resource or experiment would still challenge concepts of karma, dharma, and the cycle of rebirth. Some might see it as a manifestation of maya (illusion) or interpret it within the context of cosmic cycles, while others might struggle to integrate the new knowledge with existing teachings.

In all these cases, global religious leaders would face the daunting task of reinterpreting, defending, or completely reinventing their doctrines. New theologies that attempt to integrate the existence of non-human intelligences into traditional beliefs might emerge, positing that these beings are part of God’s creation or that the experiment itself is part of God’s divine plan – anything to cope. However, these reinterpretations would likely be controversial and could lead to significant divisions within religious communities.

The shock of such a revelation could lead to deep schisms within established religious institutions as different factions respond differently to the new reality. Some might hold fast to traditional beliefs, rejecting the new information as false or demonic. Others might seek to incorporate the new knowledge into their faith, leading to the creation of new denominations or religious sects.

Some believers might seek to merge traditional religious beliefs with the new reality, leading to syncretic movements that blend elements of different religions with new understandings of humanity’s origins. These movements could gain followers among those seeking to reconcile their faith with the new knowledge. Entirely new religions could emerge, particularly if the non-human intelligences reveal information about their own beliefs or spiritual practices. These new religions might attract those disillusioned with traditional faiths or those seeking a new spiritual path in light of the revelations.

For many, the discovery that humanity is a genetic experiment or resource could trigger a profound crisis of faith. The core beliefs that give our lives meaning – beliefs about creation, purpose, and the nature of the divine – would be fundamentally challenged.

Some individuals might experience existential despair, feeling that their lives are meaningless or insignificant in the context of this new reality. The belief that they were created for a divine purpose might be replaced with the fear that they are nothing more than a biological product or tool. Others are likely to abandon their faith entirely, feeling betrayed by the religious institutions that they once trusted. The idea that religious teachings were wrong or incomplete may lead to profound disillusionment and a complete rejection of all spiritual, dogmatic beliefs. In the face of such a crisis, many individuals would likely embark on a search for new meaning and purpose. This could take several forms:

Some might turn to other spiritual traditions, philosophies, or practices in search of answers. Eastern religions, new age practices, or indigenous beliefs that emphasize a more interconnected or non-anthropocentric view of the universe may gain popularity. More so than now, individuals might develop their own personal theologies, blending elements of their former faith with new ideas inspired by the revelation. These personal theologies could focus on themes of resilience, self-determination, or the search for higher truth beyond the material world.

For some, the revelation might reinforce a turn towards science and secularism as a means of understanding the universe. They may reject religious explanations altogether, placing their faith in human knowledge, technology, and the pursuit of empirical truth. Human beings have a remarkable capacity for physical, psychological and emotional resilience. Over time, many individuals would likely find ways to adapt to the new reality, even if it means fundamentally altering their beliefs. IT may even be possible that this predilection has been engineered into us as an adaptive mechanism.

Others may experience a sort-of cognitive dissonance, holding on to their religious beliefs while simultaneously accepting the new information. They might compartmentalize these beliefs, building a wall between reality and their belief systems, allowing them to coexist without integrating them.

Some individuals may reaffirm their faith in response to the revelation, seeing it as a test or a challenge that strengthens their commitment. They may interpret the situation through the lens of their existing beliefs, finding ways to incorporate the new knowledge into their spiritual framework.

Over the long term, religious institutions would undergo significant transformations. Some would outright collapse, while others may adapt, evolving new theologies and practices that incorporate the reality of non-human intelligence and their apparent interference in our evolution. These transformed institutions might focus more on universal themes of spirituality, ethics, and the search for meaning, rather than strictly anthropocentric philosophies.

The shared experience of this revelation might lead to the emergence of a more global or universal spirituality, one that transcends traditional religious boundaries. This new spirituality might focus on the interconnectedness of all life, the mysteries of the cosmos, and the pursuit of knowledge and understanding. It could foster a sense of global unity and shared purpose, even as it challenges old divisions.

Some may view this revelation as an opportunity for human spiritual evolution. The shock of discovering our true origins might serve as a catalyst for deeper introspection and a reevaluation of what it means to be human. This could lead to a period of spiritual enlightenment, where humanity moves beyond old dogmas and embraces a more expansive and inclusive view of existence.

The discovery that humanity is the result of a genetic experiment or a resource for non-human intelligences would have profound impacts on world religions, individual faith, and personal beliefs. Religious institutions would face existential crises, the emergence of new religious movements, and long-term philosophical and cultural transformations. The ultimate outcome would depend on how both individuals and societies respond to this unprecedented challenge to their beliefs and worldviews.

More important to the future of humanity, however, is how the NHI themselves might react once the subjects of their experiment become cognitively aware of their existence. The NHI are not likely to walk away and try again somewhere else. It may be more expedient, from their perspective, to simply wipe the slate clean and start over.