Ask A Genius 1494: Rick Rosner says, “Fuck Theology,”or More on Theology, Free Will, and the Politics of Religion

In this candid interview with Scott Douglas Jacobsen, writer and television personality Rick Rosner delivers a sharp rejection of theology, arguing that religion in the United States has been hijacked by Christian nationalism and weaponized against humanist values. Rosner critiques theological defenses of free will, ultimate purpose, and divine creation, instead emphasizing science, informed will, and the causal chain of human decisions. The discussion also explores generational shifts in behavior, addiction to technology, and the manipulation of low critical thinking skills for political power. A thought-provoking exchange on atheism, metaphysics, and the misuse of faith.

Ask A Genius 1384: AI Consciousness, Authoritarianism, and the Future of Human Agency

Rick Rosner and Scott Douglas Jacobsen examine the accelerating influence of AI, from obsequious alignment models and systemic enshittification to geopolitical power shifts and authoritarian amplification. They reflect on AI's mimicry of consciousness, shrinking human agency, and the rise of “AI-native” generations who may prefer digital companions over human relationships.