Returning to Reality: Thomas Merton's Wisdom for a Technological Age (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780718892951)

We are becoming a nation of superficial and distracted consumers of instant messages and images, a state of being which does not aid engagement in religious and other deep commitments that require a sustained level of reflection and contemplation. In his thought-provoking work, Phillip M. Thompson analyses the shadow elements of technology - nuclear armaments, the bio-engineering of humans, and the distancing of humanity from the natural world - through the fascinating insights of the spiritual writer and monk Thomas Merton (1915-1968). Merton's work offers an important critique and healing resource for contemporary, technology-saturated culture through constructive recommendations which include a balanced approach to work, the careful management of technology, and an appreciation of the recuperative aspects of nature. While understanding the positive influences of technology, Merton urges us not be naively optimistic about its benefits, but to consider the threat it poses toa life of humanity and spiritual connection. A consideration of the profound issues discussed in this book will interest any reader concerned with the intersection between spirituality and technology, and how to maintain spiritual integrity in a technological world.

Author: Phillip M. Thompson
ISBN-10: 071889295X
ISBN-13: 9780718892951
Publisher: Lutterworth Press
Language: English
Published: 01/31/2013
Pages: 132
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.42lbs
Size: 9.00h x 6.00w x 0.29d