Alexandros Batalias

Alexandros Batalias is a PhD candidate at the University of Cambridge, affiliated with Trinity College, focusing on Theological Anthropology, Artificial Intelligence, and Transhumanism.

He holds a BA in Theology from the University of Athens, where he graduated top of his class, achieving a grade of 93%. Following this, he pursued postgraduate studies at KU Leuven in Belgium, where he completed two Master’s degrees: an MA and an MRes.

His first Master’s thesis explored the intricate interplay between emergence theory—particularly in chemistry and biology—panentheism, and theology, for which he was awarded First-Class Honours. His second Master’s thesis, titled "Gregory of Nyssa’s Theological Anthropology and Transhumanism: Bodies, Machines, and Minds," examined the mind-body problem in the context of whole-brain emulation scenarios, also receiving First-Class Honours.

As AI becomes increasingly human-like, and humans integrate technology into their bodies, we are confronted with profound theological, scientific, and existential questions. His project seeks to explore human distinctiveness amidst these technological advancements, drawing on the works of Maximus the Confessor, with a particular emphasis on the role of embodied cognition in understanding human identity. His PhD research focuses on the ontological distinction and relations between humans and robots/machines.

His other research interests include the hard problem of consciousness, non-human agency, anthropology of technology, philosophy of technology, digital theology, the relationship between science and religion, and the anthropology of transhumanism.

He has been offered several Prizes, Awards, and Scholarships for his exceptional academic performance.