What to do with the new techs?

IT’S a question many people are asking nowadays. Some are

worried of the undeniable peripheral damage it has caused on many

people, especially the young. We cannot deny that forms of addiction,

of wasting time, of exposing users to moral dangers, are appearing.

These problems should be addressed promptly and drastically.

             Others are also worried that some people condemn these new

technologies as pure, unmitigated evil, and so they shy away from them

completely and tell others to do likewise. This position is not

realistic. It’s a cowardly attitude akin to the ostrich’s defense of

burying its head in the sand when a predator comes.

  

            Obviously, both groups have their valid reasons which

should be given due consideration. But I think the main thing to do is

to develop the sense and skill of using these new technologies

properly. This to me translates into how to achieve a sober and

intelligent use of these technologies.

  

            Yes, we have to avoid plunging into these modern wonders

guided only by our instincts, curiosities and the intoxicating

fascination for novelties. This attitude has no other end than

disaster. We need to discipline these elements and put them under the

direction of our reason enlightened ultimately by faith, hope and

charity.

  

            In practical terms, we have to see to it that we have a

clear and valid reason for using these technologies. And ultimately,

the clear and valid motive for using these techs is nothing other than

giving glory to God and serving others. If we are not aware and driven

by these motives, we would be pursuing things badly.

             The understandable spontaneous reaction of curiosity and

interest once we discover and explore these technologies should

immediately be reined in. It’s always worthwhile to practice some

restraint and moderation in their use so as not to be dominated and

led by mere blind impulses and urges. I would say that this is part of

what Christ said about having to deny oneself and carry the cross if

we have to follow him. (cfr. Mt 16,24)

  

            Part of this self-restraint and moderation is to be

contented with what we already have unless we have good reason to

explore into what we may consider as ‘new territories.’ There’s such

thing as disciplining and even controlling our unhinged curiosities

that can lead us to unnecessary complications in life.

             This attitude and action is never an infringement of our

freedom and our rights, as some people would claim. We can also freely

deny ourselves when we realize that there is a higher good that we

have to be more interested in pursuing and protecting.

             Freedom is never just a function of following our

instincts, feelings and ideas alone. It is essentially a function of

following the commandments of God who, in the first place, is the

author of our freedom.

  

            And if we follow by that rule, then our new technologies

should be used for God’s glory that is translated into loving him and

loving everyone. They are not meant simply to feed our own interests.