Sherry Turkle's "Alone Together" explores the paradoxical nature of human connection in the digital age. The book examines how technology, while connecting us globally, can simultaneously isolate us from meaningful interactions. Turkle highlights the complexities of online relationships and the potential for both intimacy and alienation. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the psychological impact of technology on our sense of self and our relationships with others. The book offers a thought-provoking analysis of the evolving human experience in a technologically advanced world.
In 'Counterfeit Gods,' Timothy Keller identifies and examines specific idols that rule over individual people and nations. He argues that many good things, such as money, sex, power, and success, can become 'ultimate' and thus idols when they are elevated above God. Keller uses biblical stories, contemporary examples, and personal experiences to illustrate how these idols function and how they can be replaced with true, biblical, and spiritual worship. The book emphasizes the need to root out these idols and cling to the one hope worth having, our faith in the work of Jesus Christ.
In 'Building a God', Christopher DiCarlo delves into the ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI) as it approaches and potentially surpasses human intelligence. The book discusses the need for ethical guardrails around powerful AI tools, the importance of critical thinking in navigating the future of technologically advanced societies, and the potential risks and benefits associated with the rapid development of AI. DiCarlo draws on his expertise in philosophy, education, and ethics to provide a comprehensive analysis of the moral landscape of AI development.
In this book, Neil Postman argues that the contemporary world is more akin to Aldous Huxley's 'Brave New World' than George Orwell's '1984'. Postman contends that television's emphasis on entertainment has led to a decline in rational discourse and the trivialization of politics, education, and religion. He contrasts the print-based culture of the 19th century with the televisual culture of the 20th century, highlighting how the medium of television inherently promotes incoherence and triviality, turning serious information into a form of entertainment.
Austin and Andrew explore the intersection of idolatry and technology, particularly how AI can act just like idols used to. Why is Andrew studying idolatry and AI? How do they connect? How should we take Tertullian's views on idolatry and apply them to today? They explore these questions and more, including the human need for connection and how technology can fulfill or distort that need, drawing on insights from Sherry Turkle's work. Ultimately, Andrew challenges listeners to consider whether their use of technology leads to life or idolatry.
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00:00 - Introduction to Idolatry and Technology
08:32 - Some History on Idolatry
11:16 - Ethics of AI Development
17:33 - The Search for Meaning in AI
20:25 - The Nature of Life and AI
23:15 - Human Relationships vs. AI Companionship
27:46 - Choose Life
Thumbnail image made by ChatGPT using the following prompt: create youtube thumbnail for What Would Jesus Tech podcast on how AI can be like idolatry. just keep it simple with minimal words and make a beautiful technological image of an idol. Shownotes have some AI input as well, leveraging Riverside.
Cohosted by Andrew Noble, Joel Jacob, and Austin Gravley. Original Music by Abigail Neale. To learn more about What Would Jesus Tech and to support the show visit whatwouldjesustech.com
Keywords: idolatry, technology, AI, Christianity, ethics, biblical theology, human relationships, modern idolatry, Sherry Turkle, meaning
What Would Jesus Tech 
