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POLITICO Tech
Why the ‘religion’ of tech needs a reformation
Oct 18, 2024
Greg Epstein, the Humanist chaplain for Harvard and MIT and author of "Tech Agnostic," probes the temple-like reverence many hold for technology. He argues that tech has morphed into a modern religion, fostering blind faith. Epstein discusses the ethical dilemmas created by tech companies, the parallels between technology and spirituality, and the urgent need for reformers to challenge harmful practices. He envisions a society where human dignity takes precedence over mere technological advancement.
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Quick takeaways
- Technology has emerged as a powerful belief system, influencing behaviors and norms similarly to traditional religions, demanding critical assessment.
- The concept of a 'tech reformation' is proposed to encourage humanity to reclaim autonomy and prioritize moral values over blind faith in technology.
Deep dives
Technology as a Religion
Technology has evolved into a powerful belief system, influencing societal behaviors and norms in ways akin to religion. The speaker suggests that our increasing reliance on technology has positioned it as the world's most potent religion, with individuals becoming unwitting worshippers. This notion is underscored by the role that artificial intelligence plays, being perceived almost as a deity by its followers due to its transformative impact. The need for a 'tech reformation' is emphasized, advocating for humanity to reclaim its autonomy and prioritize moral values over blind faith in technology.
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