Send us a text

Richard’s guest for this episode is Dr. Hermina Nedelescu, a neuroscientist at the Scripps Institute. Hermina is a third-generation scientist from Romania. Her current research focuses on neural circuits and their role in emotional responses to drug use and sexual abuse. Hermina is also an Orthodox Christian, currently pursuing her Masters degree at the Center for Theology and Natural Sciences in Berkeley.

In our conversation, Hermina noted that the word, “soul,” was initially a pre-Christian terms that was later adopted into Christian language. Instead of “soul,” neuroscientists more often use the terms, “mind” or “consciousness,” which are ongoing areas of neuroscience research. Hermina stressed the importance of bridging the gap between science and theology, especially in the area of consciousness research. She elaborated, emphasizing the need for dialogue between people of faith and those with a science background in order to better understand the non-physical expressions of human beings.

Hermina views the “soul” as a metaphor for human experiences and ideas that are fundamental aspects of a particular individual. When asked about the idea of the soul existing beyond physical life, Hermina suggested that experiences—and accomplishments—frequently outlive individuals.

Richard and Hermina believe it is important to integrate the spiritual and physical aspects of human experience. Hermina cited Fraser Watts’ research on “embodied spirituality,” which she has found helpful in her own theological thinking.

The conversation concludes with a discussion of special contributions that Orthodox Christianity can make to our understanding of the human soul. In a recent book chapter, Hermina focused on the Orthodox concept of theosis, the idea that human beings have the capacity to become God. Although not universally accepted by all Christians, Richard pointed out that theosis deeply resonates with the Wesleyan notion of sanctification and growing in holiness.

For more information, check out the following resources suggested by Hermina:

Hermina Nedelescu, “Intelligence Amplification and the Inner Life of the Soul” in The Promise and Peril of AI and IA: New Technology Meets Religion, Theology, and Ethics, edited by Ted Peters, published in Agathon: A Journal of Ethics and Value in the Mordern World, Vol 10/2025, pp. 353-364. (Published ATF Theology, Adelaide, 2025.)

Fraser Watter, A Plea for Embodied Spirituality: The Role of the Body in Religion, London: SCM Press, 2021.

Dumitru Staniloae, Orthodox Dogmatic Theology: The Experience of God, Vol. 1: Revelation and Knowledge of the Triune God, Brookline, MA: Holy Cross Orthodox Press, 1998.

Christof Koch, https://alleninstitute.org/news/exploring-the-minds-mysteries-with-christof-koch/