Although the horse bolted long ago, I’d always dispute the idea that Technology can ever be ‘neutral’. The moment we interact with any technology it similarly interacts with us. Take my ‘go to’ example of an axe. Neuro research shows how we become integrated with the simplest of tools. I become ‘man with an axe’. This changes me and Therefore my relating to the world. Trees, once my friends now shudder at my approach . . .
Lots of things to ponder as I said but it occurred to me that screen activities particularly scatter us, precisely because of their disembodied nature. In the same way thoughts wander into the strangest places as our bodies go to sleep, for our minds have nothing to hold them in place, so the lack of physical interaction means we are - most ironically - powerless to be taken somewhere else. We are less than physically disconnected in our multiple connections.
Very worthwhile chat. It would be very interesting to hear more about Father's transition from being a ceremonial magician to being the abbot of a monastery. That must have been one fascinating journey.
Hi Jack
Thank you for that, and Good to Hear you!
Much to ponder
Although the horse bolted long ago, I’d always dispute the idea that Technology can ever be ‘neutral’. The moment we interact with any technology it similarly interacts with us. Take my ‘go to’ example of an axe. Neuro research shows how we become integrated with the simplest of tools. I become ‘man with an axe’. This changes me and Therefore my relating to the world. Trees, once my friends now shudder at my approach . . .
Lots of things to ponder as I said but it occurred to me that screen activities particularly scatter us, precisely because of their disembodied nature. In the same way thoughts wander into the strangest places as our bodies go to sleep, for our minds have nothing to hold them in place, so the lack of physical interaction means we are - most ironically - powerless to be taken somewhere else. We are less than physically disconnected in our multiple connections.
Trust you are well
Blessings
Eric
Very worthwhile chat. It would be very interesting to hear more about Father's transition from being a ceremonial magician to being the abbot of a monastery. That must have been one fascinating journey.
This was a fascinating conversation, Jack. Thanks. I have thought about tech as magic, but not as much about magic as tech.
It might have been interesting to ask how priestly ministrations at the Eucharist weren’t also about power? :)