The Religion of IT
The assigned module for discussion is “The Religion of Computers” by David S. Bricklin, found at http://www.atariarchives.org/deli/the_religion_of_computers.php
Your task(s) are (1) to reduce to some 3 sentences paragraph the essence of Bricklin’s argument, and then (2) to write a critique, where you state whether you agree or disagree with his basic arguments.
Although Bricklin writes about computer technology, you may extend his argument to mobile communications technology, such as the proliferation of cell phone models, and so on.
In Youtube, see the clip "Colossus (the prequel to the Terminator?) It can add visual dimension to this learning module
Your task(s) are (1) to reduce to some 3 sentences paragraph the essence of Bricklin’s argument, and then (2) to write a critique, where you state whether you agree or disagree with his basic arguments.
Although Bricklin writes about computer technology, you may extend his argument to mobile communications technology, such as the proliferation of cell phone models, and so on.
In Youtube, see the clip "Colossus (the prequel to the Terminator?) It can add visual dimension to this learning module
Comments
I can not agree with Bricklin more. Computers are only tools and the prior concern for most users today is not the facilitation but how to prevent hacker and virus, at least it’s the situation in my office.
When Jesus Christ, Confucius and Mohammed preached to their disciples they didn’t use computers or cell phones or text books, their followers just exercised hearing to what they preached and it worked well because hearing is the best function of human sensory organs. That’s what we call “Natural”. I’m always wondering whether or not China could produce Confucius supposing everyone used computer at his time?
According to Marina Krcmar, associate professor of communication at Wake Forest University, in her study “Living without the Screen”, she pointed out that besides shielding children from sex and violence, the other reasons for people permanently turning off the TV included:
1. Finding extra time for other activities;
2. Encouraging family interaction, their children’s independence and creativity, and a wise use of their time;
3. People who are very political liberal or very conservative Christian;
4. By rejecting the industry the non-viewers felt they gained power in their homes;
5. Children might lose social capital but more and more of them have grown comfortable without TV and have found other ways to connect to peers.
6. Marina Krcmar does not have a TV in her house.
If there is a similar study “Living without Computer (is it possible)”, I believe the reasons will be similar too.
Although there are 4 billion cell phones being used today, there are also ten reasons to throw away your cell phone:
1. It makes your life more complicated
2. It is horribly expensive
3. It enslaves you to a one-sided contract
4. It makes you perpetually available
5. It is boring
6. It must constantly be recharged
7. It knows where you are
8. It encourages stupid people to become a public menace
9. Ubiquitous pleather accessory shops
10. It turns you into a public annoyance
The clip “colossus” reminds me of “War Games” (1983), one of the best of the hacker subgenre. A young man finds a back door into a military central computer in which reality is confused with game-playing, possibly starting World War III.
TV, computer, mobile phones are all products of IT industry. Today 4 billion mobile phones are being used. All these appliances help developing countries to enhance their political, economic and cultural development. However, they are only tools, the tools invented by human that can bring you positive convenience and negative inconvenience as well. It is the “policy” of your live, a matter of your “choice”.
The religion aspect of the article intends to show how the task of creating a computer program language or even hard ware peripheral involves a process of conceptualization. First, the product is programmed, developed and later on manufactured on a small scale. Once it wins acceptance it will be marketed as the new in thing in the computing world. This is shown in the various products that succeeded each other despite the seeming acceptance the product after it has won accolades from its users. The quick succession of various hardware and software applications illustrate the fast paced nature of IT development following closely the prediction made by Charles Moore were he said that microprocessor speed will double every 18 months. Although I partially agree with the sentimental aspect involved in the development and quick obsolescence of previously adopted technology, we should not ignore the capitalist nature of production in the creation of IT products. IT thrives on innovation, to make people want something that they do not want, by constantly wanting to create updates with new features and more powerful specs. The normal users of computers are left wandering, when will the updates end? But we all know it will never end. IT has truly became the highest mode of production, since it’s was able to truly commodify knowledge and turn its product to an unending line of demand for further modification. Like Man when he fell from grace because of greed for knowledge of the forbidden tree, IT perhaps has became the true successor of post modern faith, continuing to believe in its power but always anticipating that something better will come by.
Writing Bricklin's argument in the shortest synopsis, we are able to derive three postulates:
(1) The struggle of Good & Evil in programming, leading to evolution with intentions of producing a programming language ideally better than its predecessors. A discussion of the praise, failure, follies and vices of four programming languages: Basic, Pascal, C, and Unix.
(2) Presence of freedom, knowledge, and volition in the user's selection of operating system, its respective clients, and the decision of upgrade and purchase of peripherals. This aspect is typically affected by advertising, which in turn ushers in man's expected natural response of intimidation and fascination with things mysterious or new.
(3) The proliferation of religious activities online.
To read the rest of the article, go to:
http://d1mat1nag.tabulas.com/2009/02/04/holymoto-:-a-baudrillardan-response-to-bricklins-religion-of-computers/
I see things the same way as Bricklin’s arguments on the era of reliance and never ending advancement of computer technology which became part of the people’s belief system or personal conviction. With the way I perceive it, most of us had been drawn to the benefits of the continuous development of computer technology, which had become an inseparable part of our lives. Just like religion, computers nowadays provide a semantic framework that identifies the entirety of life and thought. This implies that computers govern our perception of the world and sometimes even command what we ought to do or think about. From being a mere tool, it had turned into something much more significant than that. However, it does not necessarily correlate to all other practices done in the real religion. There’s still a limitation with the metaphorical link. I reckon that the accelerating speed of the information highway must not hold dominion over us. Still, boundaries must be set in order to make a well-balanced dependence on the increase of technology. As American Physicist, Freeman John Dyson once said, “Technology is a gift of God. After the gift of life, it is perhaps the greatest of God’s gifts. It is the mother of civilizations, of arts and of sciences.”
In this article, it can be seen that there’s a comparison and contrast with the progress of religion and progress of computer technology. The timeline of computer advancement can result to a chaotic scenario. The author clearly pointed out that when problem arises, developers (software and computer)) creates a solution, and people tend to adhere to the solution (products) and become satisfied. However, if new problem arises, this will be a different matter. The tendency is to seek another. Likewise in religion, as stated, “We see the Light, we find the Way. And we are unshakable: that is, until we discover a new problem.”
The article also pointed out another type of person. This is an enthusiast who just follows the trend of the society. The author noted “Aura in the computer field”, which is similar to new trend, in which is taken advantaged by marketing. People patronize computed technology blindly. They focus on latest advance, the top of the line, and affordable. In other words, what’s hot and new is good for the time being.
It is agreeable that people should be more rational and pragmatic particularly in solving problems. Moreover, the major difference in between religion of computers and the real religion is of the content and purpose. Computers are tools help people in their work (work-related problems) while real religion is a way of life that provides principles and philosophy to live (life-related problems). Hence, problems can be solved in different ways either using a single solution (e.g. computer), combined solutions (e.g. philosophy and computer) or multiple solutions.
The 10111’RD PSALM
This revision of the original PSALM can be considered into different views. The first view is mockery of the scripture of religion and mockery of the real modern world. This emphasizes how people work particularly in “office related-work.” The people depends so much in computers in which time and work constraint them to have time for recreation such as religious activities. For those with religions, due to stress of heavy work, people are now faithful (dependent) to their respective computers for their work-goals. This somehow overthrows their beliefs particularly in Supreme Being. This may also suggest that the modern society have decreasing religious affairs and attachments. This may also illustrate how people become incapacitated due to over dependence to the computer.
Another view is that this portray how the modern society works nowadays. In the passage, it indicated, “surely good jobs and good pay shall follow me.” This is the reality of the computer age man. The need for economic survival comes first to meet the physiological and basic needs of an individual before anything else.
Computer and the Holy Word
This part is simply the importance of computer in all fields including religion. From paper and pen documentations including the scriptures and member information, it was readily made easy with the aid of computer technology. Scriptures were transformed into word processor formats. And, instead of having too much paper files and directory listing, a database was utilized. This shows that computers can be used effectively.
I agree with Bricklin’s basic arguments. The author is able to present how a religion of computers can be established on bases of convenience, enthusiasm, profitability, innovations and problems that are thought to be solvable only through technology. He presents instances when “religious” commitments can happen, especially when newly conceptualized software programs (e.g., BASIC and UNIX) and hardware (e.g., mouse) offer the best solutions to computer enthusiasts. For some, the computer has become their master – and they have become its followers or worshippers. It satisfies their desires, cravings, wants and even needs. Some can’t even live without the help and guidance of computers and other technological innovations. A practical example would be a teenager who is quite attached to his cell phone (his cell phone is his everything). Another example is a student who relies heavily on the Internet to copy and paste answers for his paper works.
Indeed, we are now living in a computer-based society where we can easily search for the ‘truth,’ the ‘way,’ and the ‘life.’ It only depends on which sect someone belongs (be it on the sect of cell phone addicts, Apple II followers, iPod enthusiasts or anti-virus software worshippers. I, myself, am a big fan of the latest anti-virus software. I don’t stop looking for the best virus killer for my very slow PC. Well, the best virus killer is yet to come. Perhaps, it will come next year, a decade after or a thousand years after. The same goes with waiting for the coming of the best cell phone, laptop, software applications, programming language and other technological innovations. It is a never-ending IT development – an eternal worshipping of what’s ‘it.’ This will continue to happen if we still don’t see computers (and other innovations) as just tools, “like screwdrivers or garden rakes.” What if the time comes when these tools think, just like a machine named Colossus in the movie ‘Colossus: The Forbin Project’? Is it the start of a true religion of computers?
Eric Penalba
There is an argument there that was raised:
“Why do emotional commitments run so high in the computer field?”
Emotions are being tagged here maybe because when you are developing a new thing out of nothing, you are truly focused and you give your all in developing the program. In the process you will sacrifice your health, sleep, social recreations that will let you decide that you should really pursue what you have started. And when it is finished the reward that you will get for example students will make it as benchmark in their school that their institution is better than their other childhood friends because they have Apple II or they can bring iPods inside their classrooms as part of their learning. With this thought, there is a sense of reward on your side that you created a program. Indeed this will give the person the sense of freedom to create another innovation in the Information Technology thus like religion it will give them the chance to tell and market everyone their product.
I disagree with this article because technology should not be put into a high pedestal to the point that emotions should be given in and it will be descriptively be like a religion. People today tend to forget the meaning of being personal. Such thing as talking personally (they would just rely on SMS, email), This reminds me of people who are exchanging heated arguments because of miscommunication and even in academe using the basic form of researching which is going to the library.
but he have this idea that there would be a computer on every work desk was something we all people knew should happen. he also state the slow acceptance of computers for everyday use in the office over the years, he knew such penetration had many barriers, and we had to be "practical" in out thinking.
The continuous and almost unending phase of technology transformation makes a lot of people, specially those who are technology savvy, “go gaga” with this kind of advancement. It continuously tries to become more user friendly, while making the lives of the modern man more efficient and comfortable. Did the people of the previous century ever thought that interacting with the people on the other side of the world possible with just a snap of a finger? Well, Technology made it happen and I think that technology will find its way to make other impossibilities possible. This is the charisma of technology, of its advancement, which I think made a lot of people go crazy over it. Using computers as an example, Bricklin’s article showed how computers upgraded from the simple black and white full of codes monitors, where in only a computer expert may able to comprehend its complexities to the wide range of user friendly softwares that the market is selling right now. A good example of an unending eureka is the cellular phones industry, the updates and the blooming of new model of cell phones seems eternal, unless otherwise they were able to create other devices that could beat the performance of a cellular phone. But then again, I do not recede to the fact that technological advancement is indeed unstoppable as of the moment for as long as the human mind is still capable of devising ways to make its life more comfortable and advanced, it will never end.
Based on what is happening today, Computers, cellular phones, and other gadgets, which is an offshoot of technological advancement will be (or eventually be) embraced by the modern man because it was transformed from being a luxury to a necessity. Technology is successful in penetrating the lives of the modern man and it is just an issue of “opportunity” that some other people in this era was not able to take advantage of this prospect, its just a question of, who in his right mind don’t want to make his life more relaxed, where he can almost enjoy anything in a snap?
Let’s accept the fact that technology particularly computer has already served both the “wants and needs” of the people. It has already become part of our existence because it is necessary to schools, offices, government, and other regular activities of the people. In schools, it would be a great doubt if professors would still be accepting thesis that are hand written because it is a requirement that it should be type written, font 12, Times new roman,1.5margin in order to be uniformed and presentable. In offices, it would be a great loss for the company if communication technology such as emails, instant messaging, and as well as databases will not be used because these technologies have become the essential tools for them. And of course, the government has relied on technology in order to develop the participation of the people and as well as the safe-keeping of important files and documents.
In this case, technology has become part of the needs and became the necessity of the people. However, technology has also taught us how to be sophisticated. Computers are now serving our “wants” particularly the “this is in” thing. We purchase computers because almost everyone in the community has it already. In addition, almost everyone is fascinated with computer most especially in setting-up the social community such as Friendsters, multiply, and other online social networks.
As of this moment, this has been the scenario of computer technology. And at this moment we can already see its impact to the people and the way it has become part of the existence of humans. We don’t know yet what might happen in the future or how much more will computer technology will be touching our daily lives.
Although I admit that IT has done so much innovation in our lives, I agree to Bricklin’s point that these are just means to aid man. Believing that the realm of information technology is the answer to the irrepressible complexities around us is like rashly welcoming the Trojan horse with open arms. Computers are merely human inventions, and all those fascinating software programs are only products of man’s much intricate capacities. IT may offer a quick and easy means of getting difficult things done, but it is not sole path to advancement and progress. Along with its practical benefits, the fast paced development of information technology also brings about down sides that the public tends to overlook.
First, information technology has significantly changed the landscape of education. Reading materials are no longer confined in the library, as there are already numerous sources online. While there is open information to all, it has become unfiltered as well. Now it is difficult to bear out the veracity of a particular fact as the leniency in the web seems to allow instant authentication of any ideas, opinions or pieces of information.
Secondly, it gave birth to a new breed of high end capitalism. The entire information technology field has become the hottest article of trade. The unparalleled sales of these products, from computer hardware, software programs to solutions technology, show how IT has captured the widest ranged of clientele. Patrons who are willing to grab the next model not because he wants to, but because they are made to believe that this is what they need.
Lastly, there is nothing worse than a public who has gone imperceptive. People now a days has slowly becoming highly dependent on technology and has crossed the borders of pragmatism and narrow-mindedness. They always want the quick, easy and simple ways to get things done. These are the people who seem to have shifted their fascination with technology to some sort of a modern cult, or in a way, a religion. For them, this is eureka, the light, the answer to the problems. Instead of using technology to their advantage, most people are becoming slaves to it.
In the age when everything seems to be a click away, it is almost impossible to imagine what would be the next thing after computers, mobile phones, ipod and the World Wide Web. Information technology is expected to create more unfathomable development in the years ahead. Therefore, instead of allowing ourselves to be simply driven, we should take charge and manage these changes.
(1)The rise and fall in popularity of computer languages. It is one of man’s nature to “go with the flow”. What is “in” today may not be acceptable after a period of time. If some genius discovers something better and something new, man will go for it.
(2)A never ending quest to find solutions to our problems. The world is an endless search for answers.
(3)We can not force everyone to believe in something. There will still be those who we call “non-believers” both in the field of technology and religion.
I agree with Bricklin’s argument that computers will never be a mechanism of salvation. Man tends to be dependent on those things which are beneficial to them. Because man has identified needs and wants, it started creating things to satisfy these including how these can be met. Whether it be to satisfy our thirst for knowledge or for self-fulfillment, many of us feel the need for this technology. Both religion and computers is a world view and philosophy to which one clings with ardor and zeal. Computers could never give peace to one’s inner self. Computers have become powerful but it cannot replace religion in this sense.
Faith arises when you come to believe. When a person puts "trust" in something, then, that person is exercising faith.
1. Some people have become amazed of how computer technology has efficiently and effectively transformed their lives, thus the rise of computer fanatics.
2. Computer technology is held as an absolute truth by other people; the same way that religious beliefs and dogmas are treated as universal truth by lay persons and religious men.
3. Recent computer and technological innovations have created a culture of consumerism.
In my point of view, with the fast moving life in these modern times, computers hold tremendous significance. Considering the kind and the amount of impact that computers have on individuals, groups, and organizations, one can no longer be computer illiterate.
In almost every field and industry, computers have now governed the way we communicate, interact, and share information and knowledge. Not only those, levels of scientific progress, technological achievements, and engineering feats are almost entirely dependent on computers. That is why corporations, industries, and educational organizations have recognized and have placed so much importance on computer.
However, with all these valuable things and information we can benefit from computers, Bricklin warns us by saying that “Real religion has played a vital role in the lives of many for whom it provides guiding principles, a philosophy and a source of inner strength. But computers are not the Cosmos, nor are they even instruments of salvation. Computers are tools, like screwdrivers or garden rakes”. Simply stating that we should not let these technological advances rule our lives, rather, we should be the master of these tools.
- joseph sydney valdez
a. Computer-related profession is a problem-solving profession. Computer programmers perceive the problems and make the solutions their goal.
b. Advances in computers come so fast in the field and the public does not follow along every path. But if it is the latest advance, the top of the line, and is affordable, that's enough justification for enthusiasts to go out and buy it.
c. The business of marketing computers and its consequent innovations are so effective to the extent that decisions about which computer products to buy quite often transcend rational considerations of PRODUCT CAPABILITIES and USER NEEDS.
The Department of Education estimates that around 80,000 units of personal computers (PCs) are required to provide every public high school with a computer laboratory (at a VERY LOW ratio of 18 PCs per school of 4,209 highschool students). (1) I think that this estimate reflects that information technology remain inaccessible to a large segment of Filipino youth.
Young people from the poorest sector of our society are the least to enjoy the benefits of technological advancements (laptops, latest mobile phones, and other digital gadgets). Religion alongside values education play a vital role in teaching them the proper values and the most essentials in life. These values will guide them and protect them from the pressures and frustrations (of not being able to have) of consumerism.
I agree with Bricklin that the business of marketing computers and other technological gadgets are so effective, they have practically transformed most of our WANTS TO NEEDS. Company branding seem to have identified for us what we need to have. They PLANNED for what we have to buy, and when.
Finally I also subscribe to the subtle suggestion of Bricklin as to the importance of religion in relation to technological advancements. Indeed, in this age of consumerism and unparalleled technological advancements, religion will serve as our guide in having what are ONLY essential to our happiness, development, as well as well-being.
(1) Estimates were compiled by the Task Force on PCs for Public High Schools, Economic Coordinating Council of the Philippines in May 2000. Numbers have been updated by the researchers.
I’d certainly agree with Bricklin’s contentions being that computers are hyped-up as a marketing strategy and how people become religious in terms of the certain paradoxes of the web. I remember at a time during my childhood days when I got so besotted with personal video games starting with Sega, Atari, the Nintendo, and recently with PSP. I would very well think that these inventions were once venerated like a cult when people got so crazy in owning them.
Nowadays, it’s not so hard to imagine an Apple user, being the most devoted of computer fanatics, treating their computers more than just machines, but almost a friend. Why so? Because computers make people think differently. It gives them pleasure, it gives them company. These machines never give up on the expectation of their owners at times when things look bad on them. It changes the face of the world. Needless to say, computer innovations and high-tech devices have enhanced the lives of so many people.
I remember one time when iPhone was formally released less than two years ago calling it an “industry-changing smash hit”. After a very short while it was overshadowed by the Apple TV when it intended to take advantage of the increasing availability of downloadable movie and tv shows. Apple suddenly became a full-scale religion with millions of followers. What happens here is a cultural shift that’s changing the way people think about the utility, functionality and value of such machines. I wouldn’t be surprised when all of a sudden UST officials suddenly discard all its Windows-only computers in favor of Macs for reason that the latter can outperform windows with fewer machines and at a lower maintenance. The fact is people would rather invest on products and services that work well with their needs.
I would rather regard this as the religion of consumerism. Now tell me, aren’t we all raised as consumerists? Consumerism permeates our society and in so many ways it has become our religion. The truth is we have our own religion whether we like it or not, or whether we realize it or not. This isn’t a question of faiths but which faith should be ours.
We have to admit, technology has made life easier for us, from the way we communicate up to how we live. but sometimes, technology itself have manipulated consumers thru their marketing strategies, to the point that we can't distinguish anymore what the things we really need. Take the case, the cellphone. Generally speaking, to be able to call and text are the most important things that the cellphone must do. Unfortunately, we are bitten by the consumer bug about that latest features that are really not that important, i.e. 3G, camera etc...instead of being a necessity, cellphones today have become more of a fashion statement and status symbol because of the marketing approaches used by network companies.
Technology is constantly evolving, with new and sophisticated gadgets rolling out of the factories. Companies can ram whatever they have to say about their products down our throats, but in the end, it is up to us if we are to swallow the consumer pill they are giving us or spit the crap that is their products.