Technology Is Neither Good, nor Bad, nor Neutral with Tony Reinke and Samuel James
Apr 27, 2023
auto_awesome
Leading writers Tony Reinke and Samuel James discuss the Christian's perspective on technology, exploring the potential blessings and dangers it brings. They delve into topics such as the influence of the internet on the Reformed Christian community, the non-neutrality of technology, and parenting in the digital age.
Technology is a gift from God with preloaded biases that can be used virtuously or sinfully.
The internet and social media platforms are not neutral but preloaded with biases that can go against Christian standards.
Christians should approach technology contextually, seeking guidance, and bringing trusted people into their lives for accountability.
Deep dives
The Gift and Stewardship of Technology
Technology is a gift from God that should be stewarded and appreciated. Christians should approach technology with gratitude and wonder, acknowledging its potential for good and its preloaded biases. Every technology is designed with certain biases that can be used virtuously or sinfully. Christians need to discern the virtuous use of technology, understanding that no technology is neutral. Just as cities are not neutral but are intertwined with God's story, Christians must recognize the biases and impacts of technology.
The Internet's Influence on Discourse and Culture
The internet tends to flatten discourse and nationalize conversations, shaping our instincts and influencing how we address issues online. Christians can fall into the trap of allowing elite media companies and algorithms to set the agenda for the church. It is important to be aware of how these dynamics shape our reactions and instincts in online interactions. The internet and social media platforms are not neutral, but they are preloaded with biases that can encourage behaviors that go against Christian standards of fairness, love, and charity.
Navigating the Dangers and Opportunities of Technology
When it comes to navigating the dangers and opportunities of technology, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Christians should approach technology contextually and discern how to be faithful with the attention span and finite resources they have. It is essential to bring trusted people into one's life who can hold them accountable and help navigate the use of technology. While some may feel led to minimize their online presence, others may find value in utilizing technology responsibly and intentionally. Ultimately, it is important to seek God's guidance and pursue a balanced approach that prioritizes gratitude, discernment, and stewardship of technology.
The tension between digital technology and biblical teachings on wealth
The podcast episode explores the tension between the benefits and dangers of digital technology and how it relates to biblical teachings on wealth and material possessions. The speaker acknowledges that while digital technology can bring great good to the world, there is also an intrinsic danger in pursuing wealth and becoming consumed by material accumulation. The Bible warns against the love of money and emphasizes the importance of valuing other things more. The speaker draws parallels between our relationship with money and our relationship with technology, highlighting the need for Christians to have a posture of embodiment and to not let our sense of self and our understanding of scripture be divorced from our physical existence.
The influence and dangers of the internet and digital technology
The podcast episode delves into the influence and dangers of the internet and digital technology in shaping our thinking and behavior. The speaker discusses how these technologies reshape our thought processes and train us to think differently. They highlight the importance of being aware of the ways in which internet technology can shape our views, opinions, and interactions with others. The episode explores the impact of social media platforms on the information economy and how they can monopolize and control the conversation. The speaker emphasizes the need for Christians to be discerning in their use of technology, to prioritize physical embodied relationships, and to be cautious of the negative effects digital technology can have on our mental and emotional well-being.
How should the Christian think about technology? How should we use technology? Are we better off as Luddites who avoid new technologies? In this episode—ironically, interrupted by many technological glitches!—Kevin talks with two of our leading writers when it comes to God, technology, and culture. Although Tony is a techno-optimist and Samuel is more of a techno-pessimist (or “realist” might be better), they both agree that technology can be a gift from God and also has the potential to reshape us in harmful ways. Listen in for a discussion that is part biblical musing, part intellectual analysis, and part practical application.
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro and Sponsor
1:58 Guest 1: Samuel James
4:03 Guest 2: Tony Reinke
6:16 Technology Optimism and Pessimism
17:41 The Tech-Blessed 21st Century
25:49 Dangers of Tech and Digital Discourse
48:40 Sponsor 2
49:18 Should We Throw Out Our Smartphones?
56:03 How Should We Parent concerning Tech?
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
