A (quick) Catholic understanding of Technology

A lesson on stewardship and prudence

Mar 06, 2022

“To use science and technology in a full and constructive way, while recognizing that the findings of science always have to be evaluated in the light of the centrality of the human person, of the common good and of the inner purpose of creation” (“Common Declaration on Environmental Ethics”, 10 June 2002).
- Pope St. John Paul II

Men,

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, I would like to take a moment to define some key terms that will be used in this article. The first of which will be the main topic - Technology. Technology refers to methods, systems, and devices which are the result of scientific knowledge being used for practical purposes. I hope to also use this article as a lesson in prudence and stewardship, so let’s define these terms as well.

Prudence is the Cardinal virtue that disposes practical reason to discern our true good in every circumstance and to choose the right means of achieving it.

Lastly, stewardship is recognizing that everything we have and everything we are is a gift from God and being grateful and generous with those gifts.

Technology in and of itself is neither inherently good or evil. Technology is a TOOL. Just like a hammer replacing a rock, the hammer is of course the technology that better helps man complete a specific task more efficiently. Rocks, hammers, guns, smart phones, tablets, etc. are inanimate objects (obviously). These tools don’t do much without the human body and mind controlling them, otherwise they are simply paperweights. A hammer in the hands of a poorly formed man can be a murder weapon, but with prudence and stewardship, it can also be rightly used to build a home for a family. This entire paragraph really is filled with “duh, I already knew these things” , but the obvious is the point. I see many Catholics bashing technology and I do not share the same sentiment. iPhones aren’t the reason bad ideas are spread. Communism spread like the virus it is way before Apple showed up. This is of course where the human heart comes into play.

It is not whether or not technology is available. It is how we use that technology that matters. The Catholic man needs to familiarize himself with different aspects and applications of technology, especially within the lens of the Faith, to make sure he does not allow something that is only suppose to aid him gain the power to change his morals and beliefs.

The use of technology is a form of stewardship. In Caritas in Veritate, Pope Benedict XVI said:

“Technology enables us to exercise dominion over matter, to reduce risks, to save labor, to improve our conditions of life. It touches the heart of the vocation of human labor: in technology, seen as the product of his genius, man recognizes himself and forges his own humanity” (CV, 69).

However, the Church warns against the over-reliance on technology. It can lead to soul damaging things such as exposure to inappropriate content, heightened stress, lack of sleep, the sin of sloth, and a diminishing relationship with God. If used for good, and in moderation, there is no reason why technology cannot form part of a virtuous Catholic life.

On one of the Sunday Brews, someone I know (thank you, Patrick!) mentioned the digitization of the Gospel and I wanted to touch on it in this article. A goal for all Christians is to spread the Gospel message. Technology - beginning with the printing press all the way to the powerful computer in your pocket has made this message more accessible for the world to encounter and know Christ. That is a big win. But this also means more of a chance of spreading heresy.

The Catholic Church does not view technology as evil, but it also will never tolerate the imprudent use of it. As far as the internet of things - blogs, social media, and podcasts can be powerful tools to preach the Good News. However, these same things can also be abused to push sinful content and become a cause for laziness. Like all things that CAN be used in excess, moderation is key. Different device, same moral compass!

So how can we use prudence and stewardship to make sure we are using technology for a greater purpose? Our time on this earth is made up of the choices we make as individuals. Being able to choose really is neutral. Choosing isn’t the bad or good thing. What we choose is what matters most and that is where prudence should play its part.

Take the Atomic Bomb for instance. The fact that scientists figured out how to split an atom and harness that kind of power is a great and terrible feat. Ultimately though, the decision and will to make an atomic bomb in the first place all started in the human heart.

“World wars are only projections of the conflicts waged inside the souls of men and women, for nothing happens in the external world that has not first happened within a soul.”
Ven. Fulton Sheen

We are all called to be prudent in our decision making and to be proper stewards of the earth while we are here. Using technology is a big part of that. I would like to ask the reader of this quick article to reflect upon how you use technology on a day to day basis. Is it helping or hindering you? Do you use technology intentionally or to numb your mind? Do you think before you speak? What about before you tweet? Lastly, do you think how you use technology today is a good reflection of a Christian man? If not, brainstorm some ways where you can use the technology and gifts at your disposal more constructively to help build up the Kingdom of God.

If certain types of technology are too much of a temptation then cut it out of your life.

Men build, not destroy. Choose wisely.