In this episode of Rethinking Tech, Aparna and Harinda explore the deep and surprising intersections between religion and technology.

From the invention of the printing press that democratized scripture to today's AI systems subtly reshaping belief and identity, the lines between faith, society, and tech have never been more blurred. Is technology becoming the new religion? Has screen time replaced spiritual time?

We also discuss how digital tools are reprogramming societies, the ethical dilemmas created when AI outputs clash with religious values, and the global implications of a world where digital systems often shape morality more than ancient texts.

Referenced articles this week: 

Aparna's Pick: ⁠"Big Tech's AI Supply Chain Is Built on African Workers"⁠ (Rest of World)  

Harinda's Pick: ⁠"Antiqua et Nova"⁠ (Vatican Document on AI and Humanity)
Chapters:
00:00 The Intersection of Technology and Religion
07:17 Historical Context: Technology's Impact on Religion
14:16 Tech as the New Religion
20:31 Addiction to Tech: Worship or Manipulation?
23:21 The Intersection of Technology and Addiction
24:49 Societal Reprogramming: Faith vs. Screen Time
26:44 The Rise of Digital Spirituality
28:39 Technology's Impact on Religious Beliefs
31:27 Geopolitical Implications of Religion and Technology
34:40 Conflicts Between Religious Values and AI Outputs
37:37 The Future of Religion in a Technological World Connect with the hosts:

• Aparna Bhushan → ⁠LinkedIn⁠
• Harinda Katugaha → ⁠LinkedIn⁠

Learn more about Rethinking Tech: ⁠rethinkingtech.co⁠

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