Technology and You

July 13, 2014

Phil Monsen

Define Technology

Technology <= art, craft

speaking, discourse, treatise, theory, doctrine, science

Thus: systematic treatment of art, craft or science

Technology more broadly1. Process: create means for specific valued

ends2. Objects: things created by processes3. Knowledge: Underlies process4. Technology: Subset of objects & knowledge

(e.g. “computer technology)5. System: All of the above, plus worldview

http://web.engr.oregonstate.edu/~funkk/Technology

Whoa!• Here is how I felt when Steve asked me to lead

this: (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXgWZyb_HgE from 0:56 to 1:06)

• So: how should we approach the next hour?

Our Approach• Not:

– Is technology “good” or “evil”?– The Past is awesome! (aka “Go be Amish”)– The Future is awesome!

• Instead: Think critically and deeply as Christians and take that where it leads

Ironies

• The Bible does not use the word “technology”

• Lots of technology used to prepare

• Technology in use now to facilitate ABF

Questions to get us thinking

1. Who is the tool?

2. There’s a lot for lawyers to do…

3. Does anyone watch the watchers?

4. This is your brain on technology.

5. It’s right here in my pocket…

About Device Addiction

• It’s an “Elephant in the Room” if I had to pick one

• Admit it, you are addicted to some form of technology (if not your mobile device)

• It afflicts the 24th century too: *

• And it afflicted the ancients: Isaiah 44*http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I0uFKllcUgw (first clip at 01:56, second clip at 04:47)

If That Isn’t Enough to Get You Thinking…• Consider Google

– Founded in 1998, still growing like mad– Inside every Android phone (i.e. your pocket)– When you have a question – ask Dr. Google

• Now listen to one of Google’s Directors of Engineering: (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f28LPwR8BdY)

Now How Do You Feel?

• Do you share Kurzweil’s vision?

• Do you think Google shares his vision?– If so: do you want to be careful about being

led where Google wants you to go?– If not: will the vision eventually obtain? And

then what?

This is Just the Tip of the Iceberg

• (I.e. issues of embodiedness)

• Other themes on your handouts

Finally – the Question(s)…

Which is true (or is either true)?Technology is the tool, I am the master.

Technology is the master, I am the tool.

And, in light of your answer: what is the implication for your life in Christ?

So Yeah, I Cheated

• I refuse to try to state/solve a problem

• Instead I want to make you think– Hard– Biblically– Today…and not just today!

Discussion Time

• Take note of your table number (you may have more than one)

• Discuss Bible passage(s) and Probing Question(s) associated with the number(s)

• Consider related issues and questions in the “Technology Themes” side

Wrap-Up

• Thinking through these issues takes time

• Christians and non-Christians alike are giving thought to these issues, e.g.– Deeply thoughtful books– Mars Hill Audio Journal

Close

• Final Thoughts? Questions?

• Prayer