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Homebrewed Christianity

Michael Morelli: Jacques Ellul & the Technological Society

Jul 13, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Michael Morelli, an expert on Jacques Ellul and Assistant Professor of Theology & Ethics, dives deep into the ethical quagmire of modern technology. He critiques how technology has become a contemporary idol, demanding sacrifices from society. The conversation also explores the dark dynamics of power and its link to innovation, examining warfare and propaganda's role in shaping our realities. With an emphasis on critical reflection, Morelli connects the implications of technology to faith, identity, and modern life.
01:48:53

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Jacques Ellul critiques technology as a pervasive force shaping human identity, urging caution against blind faith in technological progress.
  • The concept of 'technique' identifies a cultural obsession with efficiency, threatening human flourishing and promoting alienation and disempowerment.

Deep dives

Exploring Jacques Ellul's Critique of Technology

Jacques Ellul, a prominent philosopher and social critic, provides a critical lens through which to scrutinize the relationships between humanity and technology. He posits that technology is not merely a collection of tools but a pervasive force that shapes human identity and society. In his work, Ellul emphasizes the concept of 'technique'—the rational processes that prioritize efficiency over all other values, ultimately leading to dehumanization. This perspective prompts a re-evaluation of prevalent narratives surrounding technological advances, warning against unquestioned faith in progress and urging a more cautious approach to emerging technologies.

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