Apocalyptic beliefs are as old as humankind itself. So, why are we drawn to stories about the finite nature of everything? A group of researchers is trying to get to grips with the issue.
"In fact, we have always been as close to or as far from an apocalypse, if by that we mean a global catastrophe that wipes out or radically alters life. The idea that human life is fragile and can come to an abrupt end is as old as humanity," explains Blaženka Scheuer, senior lecturer and associate professor of Hebrew Bible Studies at Lund University.
Already in early Jewish writings, a few hundred years before the birth of Christ, there are stories of dramatic events that affect humankind. An equally dramatic theme is found in the Book of Revelation in the New Testament, where it is described how the sun turns black, the stars fall and the moon turns blood red.
The term 'apocalyptic' dates back to the Book of Revelation some 2,000 years ago. The original Greek title The Apocalypse of John became the Book of Revelation in the English version of the Bible because 'apocalypse' is derived from the Greek word for 'revelation' or 'unveiling'.
The book is by far the most famous work of apocalypticism. It is also a pivotal text, to say the least, in the subsequent Christian worldview and has coloured apocalyptic thinking ever since.
"Because the Bible has played such a major role in history, people have interpreted the Book of Revelation in different ways, which has, however, changed shape over the course of history. People have often interpreted pandemics and disease based on this apocalyptic narrative. The plague and Covid-19 are such examples," says Blaženka Scheuer.
Link between AI and apocalyptic thinking
The threat of utter destruction that can be caused by climate change or nuclear war is often described as an apocalyptic event that epitomizes the age we live in. Natural disasters, disease outbreaks and mistrust of established authority are other examples.
Within Lund University's interdisciplinary research group 'At the End of the World', researchers are now investigating how apocalyptic thoughts and currents shape historiography, legal-political thinking and populist rhetoric, as well as media reporting on AI, climate threats and migration.
"Perhaps this can be interpreted as a strong interest in the common challenges facing humanity. Climate change, pandemics, war - and not least - artificial intelligence," says Blaženka Scheuer.
Blaženka Scheuer says these events are closely linked to existential issues. For example, what happens when a machine is actually 'better' than I am as a human?
"In times of existential crisis, people resort to cultural memory. That has helped us articulate and manage a crisis over the millennia. The apocalyptic theme, with its grandiose images, comes in handy," says Blaženka Scheuer.
Reading tips: Book of Revelation
Blaženka Scheuer cites the Book of Revelation as a good example of literature that addresses human concerns in times of severe crisis and threat.
"The Book of Revelation is difficult to read, almost confusing at times because of its obscure and extravagant imagery and its lack of a clear chronological order. At the same time, it is worth remembering that the Book of Revelation, when it was written around 90 CE, served as a comfort and encouragement for those suffering to help them endure their severe persecution. Looking forward to a time when evil will be defeated once and for all gave them hope," says Blaženka Scheuer.
We can have an impact
So, what is the researcher's own view of the future? Blaženka Scheuer says that each generation needs to learn how to deal with its own major challenges. While she understands that crises and threats risk making us feel resigned and perhaps even numb, cultivation of critical engagement is particularly important.
"We may be able to mitigate the effects of an earthquake but we cannot prevent it from occurring . When it comes to climate change, war and authoritarian regimes, we are not without agency. We have a voice and can can use it for the change we want to see. That is precisely what we study in this research program. Our aim is to try and grasp the often unconscious apocalyptic patterns that influence how we understand, interpret and act in the face of contemporary cultural and political challenges," explains Blaženka Scheuer.
