My Notes: Animism - Assessing The Spirit Of Modern Technologies

I've recently started taking a few courses on Druidry and I thought I would start posting my notes on the blog. In my study of Animism this study on the spirit of modern technology was very interesting.

Assessing the spirit of modern technologies involves a practice known in animism as understanding the "spirit of our time" or zeitgeist. Rather than viewing technology as mere metal and code, animism treats these paradigm shifts—such as the "information-age" or the "artificial intelligence-age"—as entities with an essential essence that can be evaluated for their impact on the world.

How you can assess the spirit of modern technologies:

1. Identify the "Essential Essence"

To assess a technology's spirit, you must look beyond its physical utility to its core nature. This involves deep focus to understand what the technology "is" at its heart. You might ask:

• What is the underlying intention and presence of this technology?
• Is it a force of "good or harm," and to what degree?

2. Perform an Ethical Assessment

Use specific ethical questions to determine how to relate to a new technology properly and proportionately. Consider the following:

• Utility and Impact: Does this technology produce the greatest good for the greatest number of people, nature, and the planet?
• Human Flourishing: Does the technology enhance or hinder your ability to live a flourishing, vibrant, and grounded life?
• Relational Effects: How does this technology affect your relationships with family, friends, and the wider "Earth Community"?
• Duty and Responsibility: What duties are assigned to us in response to this technology, and are we treating others as a "means to an end" or as valuable in themselves?

3. Apply Normative Moral Theories

Here's a framework for assessing "spirits of our time" through different philosophical lenses:

• Existentialism: Does using this technology allow you to act authentically, or is it leading you to thoughts and actions that are in "bad faith"?
• Virtue Ethics: Does the habit of using this technology strengthen your character and help you choose the right virtues?
• Deontology: Are you using this technology because it is the right thing to do, regardless of the consequences?

4. Reflect Through Journaling

To deepen your understanding use a Journal to expand your thoughts as your awareness of these "undercurrents" grows. By recording your observations of how a technology shifts the "flow of energy" in your own soul and environment, you can better define a rational and authentic response to it.

The Goal of Assessment

Ultimately, the purpose of assessing the spirit of technology is to refine your own soul. By understanding the essence of tools like AI or the internet, you can re-act and pro-act to them with honour, adjusting your habits to maintain a deep connection with nature even within a technological world.

Assessing the spirit of a modern technology is like meeting a powerful new person in your community; you don't just look at what they own or what they do for a living. Instead, you observe their character, how they treat your neighbors, and whether their presence makes the neighborhood a more vibrant and honest place to live.