Hey Siri, How Do I Find Myself? A Conversation on Spirituality & Technology | Haidt & Crouch
Oct 17, 2024
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Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist from NYU and author of 'The Anxious Generation,' joins Andy Crouch, a partner for theology and culture at Praxis Labs and author of 'The Life We’re Looking For,' for a captivating discussion on technology's impact on spirituality and self-identity. They delve into how smartphones alter our sense of self and challenge genuine connections, especially in youth. The conversation also highlights the importance of sacrifice, community, and regaining control over attention to enhance personal flourishing in a tech-driven world.
The pervasive influence of technology fosters a fragmented self that often leads to anxiety and a lack of community connection.
The shift from play-based childhood experiences to screen-dominated interactions undermines essential social skills and contributes to mental health issues.
Engaging in spiritual practices like communal gatherings and mindfulness rituals is vital for enhancing personal well-being in a tech-centric world.
Deep dives
The Nature of Anxious Selves in a Digital World
The rise of technology has led to the emergence of a phone-based self that is often characterized by anxiety due to a lack of genuine community connection. Unlike traditional interdependent selves that thrive on meaningful relationships, the phone-based self exists in fragmented connections with transient digital interactions. This disconnection contributes to feelings of loneliness and a diminished sense of identity, leaving individuals with a skewed perception of themselves based on curated online personas rather than authentic self-awareness. The overwhelming presence of social media creates an environment where individuals may feel inadequate, reinforcing the anxiety that accompanies this modern way of being.
The Loss of Play and Its Consequences
The childhood experience has drastically shifted from play-based activities to screen-based interactions, with significant implications for development. Play is essential for brain wiring and social learning, providing opportunities for risk-taking and self-regulation, which have diminished in the context of smartphone use. As children are increasingly confined to digital devices, their ability to engage in independent, unsupervised play is compromised, leading to stagnation in critical social skills. Consequently, this transition has been linked to an increase in mental health issues among young people, particularly since the advent of smartphones around 2010.
Reimagining Personhood and Flourishing
A redefined understanding of personhood emphasizes that flourishing necessitates deeper connections rooted in community and shared experiences. Traditional perspectives on flourishing often revolve around individualistic achievement, while a more inclusive view necessitates recognizing the interdependence of individuals within their social context. The importance of love, belonging, and supportive relationships is paramount for true fulfillment, as these elements cannot be replicated through digital interactions. By fostering real-life connections and engaging with others meaningfully, individuals can reclaim their sense of self and enhance their overall well-being.
The Role of Spiritual Practices in Life
Incorporating spiritual practices such as shared sacredness, self-transcendence, and stillness can significantly enhance personal and communal well-being. These practices encourage individuals to reflect, connect, and engage with the world meaningfully, countering the isolating tendencies of modern technology. By committing time to spiritual activities, such as sabbath observance or communal gatherings, people can experience renewed focus and purpose, which is crucial for mental and emotional health. Additionally, these practices promote humility and discourage the 'magic' of instant gratification often associated with technological engagement, grounding individuals in a more authentic existence.
Redefining Routines for Healthier Living
Establishing effective routines is pivotal for regaining control over one's life amidst a tech-centric world, emphasizing the necessity of a balanced lifestyle. Morning and evening rituals that prioritize exercise, mindfulness, and reduced digital distractions can help individuals reclaim their time and focus. Implementing guidelines such as shutting off notifications and designating phone-free zones enhances attention spans and fosters deeper engagement with life. By recognizing the value of intentional practices and involving others in communal habits, individuals can combat the isolating effects of technology and create a more enriching, fulfilling life.
It’s not hard to figure out what to do with our phones. But what is hard to figure out is what our phones are doing to us.
Today’s speakers have written a lot about this topic. The first speaker is Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist at NYU and author of, The Anxious Generation, which has topped the New York Times bestseller list for 27 weeks in a row. In dialogue with Jon is Andy Crouch, a partner for theology and culture at Praxis Labs and author of the book, The Life We’re Looking For.
In this conversation, Jon and Andy discuss the effects of technology on our personal and spiritual lives and whether flourishing is possible without our phones. Their discussion is moderated by Wendy Suzuki, the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, professor of neural science at NYU, and author of the book Good Anxiety.
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