We live in a culture shaped and fueled by technology. Usually we
equate access to technology with opportunity and the chance to
pursue "the good life." Power Failure raises some crucial, if
disconcerting, questions about technology: If technology liberates
us, what kind of liberation does it promise? Are we prospering, and
by what definition?
Albert Borgmann looks at the relationship between Christianity and
technology by examining some of the "invisible" dangers of a
technology-driven lifestyle. Specifically, he points out how
utility and consumption have replaced connection to physical things
and meaningful practices in everyday life. Power Failure calls us
to redeem and restrain technology through simple Christian
practices, including citizen-based decision making, shared meals,
and daily Scripture reading.
Albert Borgmann is professor of philosophy at the University of Montana. His previous publications include Technology and the Character of Contemporary Life, Crossing the Postmodern Divide, and Holding on to Reality.