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The Sunday Show

Salvation, Abundance, Apocalypse: Is Technology the World's Most Powerful Religion?

Nov 10, 2024
Greg Epstein, the Humanist chaplain at Harvard and MIT and author of "Tech Agnostic," explores the idea that technology has morphed into a modern religion. He discusses how tech leaders promise salvation and abundance while often neglecting pressing social issues. The conversation delves into the emotional toll of political shifts and critiques the growing influence of tech titans like Elon Musk. Epstein advocates for a reevaluation of our relationship with technology, pushing for ethical reforms that align with humanist values.
47:36

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Technology has evolved into a global religion that influences societal norms and deeply affects individual interactions in everyday life.
  • Promised abundance from tech leaders often benefits a select few, raising ethical concerns about technology's role in solving human issues and fostering inequality.

Deep dives

Technology as a New Religion

The concept of technology has evolved into a global religion, influencing various aspects of life and societal norms. It transcends being merely an industry; technology now permeates every field, showcasing its dominance in everyday interactions. This shift raises critical questions about how individuals relate to technology, likening tech leaders to religious figures making promises of salvation and abundance. This parallels traditional religious beliefs, leading to a deeper understanding of tech's role in personal and collective lives.

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