Sherry Turkle, Professor of the Social Studies of Science and Technology at MIT, recently published a book called "Alone Together" in which she suggests that the use of technology in search of community can actually have the opposite effect. Texting, in particular, she writes, fosters "reassuring distance" between people and works to prevent full human engagement.
Turkle, a sharp thinker, is quick not to dismiss the value of technology, but parses its value carefully. "Technology" she says, is "useful for bridging great distances" but serves to "create distance and foster isolation in our most important relationships."
It's something of an indictment that the modern church struggles to find our footing in this technology-laden environment, especially considering that our core concept is to be a community of people committed to loving God and others. The fact that Facebook has 1.65 billion (yes, billion) 'members' who average twenty minutes a day scrolling through their 'friends' lives is indicative of the desire for community and connection. Tinder, a popular dating app with 50 million users, lets you swipe through one picture after another like a deck of cards, looking for someone with whom you might connect. And Bumble, Tinder's offshoot, offers control features making it the preferred dating app for women. Together, these apps have over two billion subscribers, all of whom are searching for an increased sense of human connection and belonging. The thought of it is stunning.
This week's scripture passage deals with perhaps my favorite character in all of scripture. He plays mostly in the background. But he is generous of heart and effective. I think his success comes from recognizing the insatiable desire for connection and community. That, and his willingness to do the hard work to foster it.
