G.K. Chesterton’s Vision of the Everlasting Man Resurfaces

The idea of achieving eternal life through technology, often referred to as “the everlasting man,” is gaining traction in contemporary discussions. This concept involves the integration of humans with robotics and artificial intelligence, promising a new form of existence. While some find this notion amusing, others are placing their faith in its potential. Among these voices, Professor Emeritus Ed Yager at Western Kentucky University invites a return to a more traditional understanding of everlasting life, particularly through the lens of literature and philosophy.

As December 2025 approaches, Yager highlights the significance of G.K. Chesterton‘s work, “The Everlasting Man,” published exactly one hundred years ago. Chesterton, a prolific essayist, poet, and philosopher, has been influential in shaping Christian thought. His writings, which include over eighty books and around four thousand essays, have prompted discussions on faith and humanity’s purpose.

Yager points out that Chesterton’s ideas were instrumental in the conversion of C.S. Lewis, a prominent scholar at Oxford and Cambridge. Lewis expressed his admiration for Chesterton, stating, “In reading Chesterton, as in reading MacDonald, I did not know what I was letting myself in for.” He found Chesterton’s exploration of Christian history compelling, noting that it provided a coherent understanding of faith.

In “The Everlasting Man,” Chesterton counters the atheistic perspective of H.G. Wells, who, in his work “The Outline of History,” portrayed human evolution as a process devoid of divine influence. Chesterton argued that if Jesus Christ is indeed the everlasting man, then human history has fundamentally changed. He emphasized that the narrative of humanity should not be seen as a continuous evolution but as one profoundly interrupted by the advent of Christ.

Yager reflects on Chesterton’s assertion that Christianity has endured for nearly two thousand years, suggesting that such resilience indicates a deeper truth. “If it were an error, it seems as if the error could hardly have lasted a day,” Chesterton wrote, underscoring the idea that genuine belief must be grounded in historical reality rather than mere legend.

This discussion resonates with contemporary cultural debates, mirroring the historical clash between Chesterton and Wells. Yager notes that the ongoing polarization in Western societies often echoes the same themes of belief and skepticism. He argues that rather than seeking a synthesis of these opposing views, individuals must make a choice.

The promise of everlasting life through faith, as presented by Chesterton, stands in stark contrast to the technologically driven vision of eternal existence. Yager aligns himself with Chesterton’s perspective, finding greater appeal in the ancient promise of spiritual life over human-engineered solutions.

As the Christmas season approaches, Yager encourages readers to reflect on these enduring themes. He concludes with a warm wish for the season, emphasizing the importance of this dialogue on faith and humanity’s quest for meaning.

In a time when discussions about the future of humanity are increasingly dominated by technological advancements, revisiting the profound insights of thinkers like Chesterton serves as a reminder of the philosophical and spiritual questions that underpin our existence.