5 evils inherent to technology we are called to heal

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n the TV series The 100, a group of young people tries to escape technological domination and attain freedom and peace. Most individuals have succumbed to technological enslavement, surrendering their free will by ingesting an electronic chip in a religious act resembling taking the Holy Communion.

The chip implants itself at the base of the skull, controlling the nervous system of its host, erasing memories of normal life, and creating new memories in a virtual reality called the City of Light; a kind of wireless Matrix from which no one can escape.

But their idols are silver and gold, made by human hands…. Those who make them will be like them, and so will all who trust in them.

Psalms 115:4,8

The Bible warns us against yielding our will to any “product of human hands.” In the series, nobody realizes the threat, but gradually, technology starts to take advantage. The chip has no mouth, ears, hands, or feet, yet it uses those of humans to expand its power like a social cancer. Every technology has its dangers. That’s why I want to help you identify these 5 evils inherent to technology we are called to heal.

Technoabuses

Although the chip from The 100 does not exist in the real world – yet – it is possible for humans to abuse technology, using it for malevolent or sinful purposes, or surrendering our freedoms to its allure.

Have a utilitarian view of technology. This means using technology with clear purposes and not allowing it to abuse you. To achieve this, you need to reverse the formula; start with the end in mind rather than the desire to own a particular device. Also, adopt an interaction model with technology that has clear limits

For instance:

1. Know your weaknesses and avoid them. I love video games, but since I know I can spend hours playing them, I do not even install them.
2. Set time limits for social media, let us say an hour per day. Use more time for meaningful interactions and less for entertainment.
3. Do not use technology meant for one activity in another. You do not need your phone or the TV when having a family meal. Put them aside.

Technoalienation

Alienation is a theological, personal, and even social ailment. It refers to both the loss of freedom due to demonic possession, irrationality, or group pressure. Technology could lead to this kind of alienation, isolating individuals from their surroundings.

Philosopher Herbert Marcuse argued that humans are subjected to the alienation caused by the progress of technology, and the only way out is through an existential awakening.* For Christians, this awakening comes when they understand their identity in God and recognize they’ve been created for a unique and exclusive purpose. Your purpose, or in any case, your mission, determines your relationship with technology, not the other way around.

Recommendations:

1. Define your identity in God. Answer existential questions: Who am I? Why am I on Earth? What unique qualities qualify me to fulfill my particular mission?
2. Use technology from the perspective of your purpose. Use technology that aligns with your purpose.
3. Do not disconnect from people around you. Strive for in-person interactions. The warm embrace of a friend is irreplaceable.

Technoaddictions

Many don’t know that the term “blackberry,” which the mobile phone shares its name with, was the colloquial term enslaved Americans used for shackles; yes, those black iron balls depicted in comics that in real life restricted freedom.

Technology can lead to serious addictions. Its dominion can ensnare and immobilize you. The mere thought of separation can cause panic. Nomophobia, or the fear of being separated from your mobile phone, can make you do ridiculous things. Moreover, technology can mediate other serious addictions like pornography, violence, or gossip.

What can you do?

1. Recognize that you have a problem. Nothing will change until you accept your condition and break its hold on your actions.
2. Seek help. Most addictions require external intervention.
3. Surround yourself with those who’ve overcome addiction and are willing to help you. Create a protective circle with them.

Technoafflictions

Every technology has consequences. Computers and mobile devices are causing new ailments that affect individual health.

A quick internet search reveals common issues like back pain, cervical malformations, carpal tunnel pressure, hearing and vision impairments, mood changes, and even lack of concentration or a propensity for violence.

Good habits can correct most of these issues:

1. Work standing up; there are desks that allow you to work while standing. You’ll exercise and develop better posture.
2. Align screens to eye level, including mobile devices. “You shall not bow down to them” (Exodus 20:5), raise them to the level of your gaze.
3. Take regular breaks and do stretching exercises. These will increase blood flow and promote your overall health.

Technoannihilation

Even the most beautiful technology sometimes has its origins in warfare. The ancestors of the sweet harp are the dreaded bow and deadly arrow. With the same hammer, you can build a house or tear it down.

The annihilating threat of technology is real; it hasn’t been relegated to science fiction or Hollywood movies. However, this is not an inherent problem with technology itself, but rather a manifestation of human wickedness.

There is only one solution to this problem. As the old hymn goes, “Do you want to be saved from all wickedness? There is only power in my Jesus.”

How about you? Have you identified these or other dangers of technology? Have you taken preventive measures to counteract these evils?

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*Marcuse, Herbert. One-Dimensional Man. Routledge (New York, 1991).