iGods: How Technology Shapes Our Spiritual and Social Lives

by Craig Detweiler

Today the world is literally at our fingertips. We can call, text, email, or post our status to friends and family on the go. We can carry countless games, music, and apps in our pocket. Yet it's easy to feel overwhelmed by access to so much information and exhausted from managing our online relationships and selves.

Craig Detweiler, a nationally known writer and speaker on media issues, provides needed Christian perspective on navigating today's social media culture. He interacts with major symbols, or "iGods," of our distracted age--Google, Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Pixar, YouTube, and Twitter--to investigate the impact of the technologies and cultural phenomena that drive us. Detweiler offers a historic look at where we've been and a prophetic look at where we're headed, helping us sort out the immediate from the eternal, the digital from the divine.

Genres: Technology, Nonfiction, Religion, Cultural, Christian Living, Christian, Spirituality

256 pages, Paperback

First published November 15, 2013

About the author

Craig Detweiler is an award-winning author, filmmaker, and cultural commentator who has been featured in The New York Times and on CNN and NPR. He is President of the Wedgwood Circle, a philanthropic collective that invests in good, true, and beautiful entertainment. He serves as Dean of the College of Arts and Media at Grand Canyon University.

Reviews

[Chrissy]

I get SO giddy when I win a nonfiction book from the Goodreads giveaways! I don't read nearly enough nonfiction, and this one sounds fabulous -- social/technological/ideological -- how does technology impact spirituality? AWESOME! I can't wait to get this in the mail, and a review should be posted within a month or so!

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

FROM Jun. 2017: I took a long break in between starting this book and finishing it. The reason is not because of the book, but because my health and ending up on dialysis. No big deal, just the timing and now I'm back on track and finished it with interest and full concentration. Although theologically-focused, the internet's history mixed with insight, questions, and observant opinions is what I got most out of this book. Sentences are clean and concise. Truth is discerned and then torn apart based on others' realities and truths. It's just a great, solid, all-around symphony of a book. Makes one think. Wonderful research brings it all together. I most loved the references to Wendell Berry (I'm currently reading, "The Gift of Good Land). I'm happy to have finally felt well enough to finish reading it because once I started it up again, I couldn't put it down. iGods is worth having, keeping, underlining, referencing, and re-reading.

FROM Nov. 2013:
I won the drawing on this book from the Goodreads Giveaways - First Reads! So excited, just received it in the mail a day ago and it looks like a nice hefty book that's going to be fascinating. I haven't won a goodreads giveaway in a couple of years, so I'm thrilled. It's the first one since I moved. Thank you Baker Publishing Group, I will be reviewing and posting the accolades to you later.

[Nonfiction-- KCM · Rating 4 out of 5]

Detweiler, an academic, offers an interesting synthesis that contrasts the cults of technology with the beliefs and behaviors of Christians (particularly those of previous generations). While Detweiler doesn’t offer a unified thesis (referencing ideas from Jaron Lanier, Sherry Turkle, and Nicholar Carr, among others), he does draw upon his extensive technological and Biblical knowledge to explain our devotion to both. Although his focus is on Apple, he also discusses Amazon, Google, Facebook, and other social networking sites. This well-researched book strikes a good balance between explaining the sociocultural effects of technological developments and contextualizing the effects of these developments within a Christian theological framework. One such interesting example of a parallel that Detweiler draws lies in his comparison between Nimrod’s ill-fated tower of Bable and the “illusion of control” that we get from using Apple products, which allow us to plan and regulate aspects of our lives. Throughout the text, Detweiler references concepts such as the “noosphere” (the collective mind) and the “singularity” (a computer superintelligence that will overtake or significantly alter humanity). The book is filled with interesting facts about the intersection of religion and technology (e.g., Medieval monks were the first to invent the mechanical clock as a way to regulate work and prayer). Overall, iGods is a well-written book that is targeted toward unbiased people interested in both the Bible and technology.

[Josh Davis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Have been reading a lot about how Christians are to approach an increasingly technological world, and how that technology shapes and influences us, so this book was a natural fit. Even so, I found it less compelling than the others I read ("Digitized" and "From the Garden to the City"). It came across with a little too much finger shaking, and less of the desired constructive discussion of how to proceed. I wonder if I would have liked it more had I read it first.

The most interesting part of the book to me was Detweiler's discussion of the major media giants (like Amazon, Apple, Google and Facebook), particularly their histories. He goes into some detail as to how such mega companies got their beginnings, and how they grew to the places of prominence they now occupy. I found these histories fascinating, and the background provided is of interest when one considers how one should use such organizations.

[Brian Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Craig Detweiler's book iGod's truly represents the history of technology and how it is shaping our spiritual and natural lives. From the birth of the computer to the latest in social media applications, Detweiler shows just how "god-like" technology is becoming.

He goes into great detail of exactly what technology is defined as and the history of apple and the internet. His exploration into the place that social media, specifically has played in our lives is very intriguing, especially in light of how he has shown our impatience with technology, in spite of its supposed design to save us time and improve our lives.

His showing of how all this has shaped us socially and spiritually really reveals just how much we rely on it. It is important to Detweiler that we have understanding of technology and how it is shaping culture, especially Christians who are supposed to be the redeemers of it.

[Mary Burkholder · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Technology has become an alternative religion.” —iGods
Do I bow before the immediacy of Google answers and the complexity of computer programs or am I in awe of a God who keeps the world in motion? Does the complexity of the tech world inflate my empty ego or remind me how little I really know? Detweiler asks soul-searching questions.

I enjoyed the history on the development of the internet and various entities such as YouTube, Facebook and Amazon.

[Phil Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great calculated perspective on technology. Detweiler offers a balanced, Christ-centered approach to the adoption of technology. I wish that I could convince my family members and close friends, including children, to take the time to read this book. It gives solid points of reference for evaluating our adoption, usage, and dependency on technologies.

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting book that thinks about the theology of technology. Very Christian oriented (if you are looking for a broader thinking about this, it isn't in this book), but I found it interesting and useful.

[Robin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dated now, and ultimately a theological reflection on various tech firms, but this is an interesting work covering Google, Facebook, amazon, etc and what they say about us. The conclusion was probably the most useful part given its age.

[Crystal ✬ Lost in Storyland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raises points on how technology influences and shapes our lives. I like how it opens discussion on technology's positive and negative influences from a biblical perspective.

[Nadia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read. Very informative and makes you think deep. Beautiful comparison with Biblical characters/episodes.

[Stephen Hiemstra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Technology has defined my career. During my career as an economist, I went from adding row and column sums with a manual calculator to programming with computer punch cards to programming personal computers for Windows and super computers in half a dozen languages. Being an early adopter of a variety of technologies allowed me to be the first to make sense of massive amounts of data. Now, social media is redefining how work gets done and how people think about themselves, the world, and even God. So when I noticed that Craig Detweiler had taken time to write a book, iGods, that tried to make sense of these changes, I was intrigued and ordered a copy.

Detweiler observes: Jesus was more than a carpenter; he was a techie (23). The Greek word, τέκτων (Mark 6:3 BNT), usually translated as carpenter probably better describes a builder. Think about it. Palestine has a lot of deserts and rocks; it has very few trees—the primary input in carpentry. Detweiler observes that Jesus does not talk about carpentry; most of his stories are not even about agriculture. His stories are about winepresses, millstones, olive presses, tombstones, cisterns, and so on—the technologies of his era (24). He talked about the things that he knew best. Detweiler prefers the translation, artisan.

Like father like son. God created the heavens and the earth bringing order to chaos (Genesis 1). Bringing order to chaos is exactly what technology does. Creation is marked by both order and by beauty. Do you suppose creation is “state of the art”? (25) If we are created in the image of ‘high tech” God, then does our fascination with technology reflect God’s presence among us? [1]

Are you intrigued yet?

Detweiler focuses on the persons, the technologies, and companies responsible for the social media revolution writing in 8 chapters, proceeded by an introduction and followed by a conclusion. The 8 chapters are:

Defining technology,
Apple,
A brief history of the internet,
Amazon,
Google,
A brief history of social networking,
Facebook,
You Tube, Twitter, Instagram (v).
These new technologies are intrinsically more complex than even the personal computers that we are all familiar with. Changing the battery in an iPhone, for example, requires special tools and a detailed list (8 or more steps) of instructions which, ironically, can be found more easily on YTube.com than in any manual. This complexity relegates us to the role of consumers rather than masters of the basic technologies of our age (25). It is WALL-E (a garbage-compacting robot), not the morbidly obese Captain McCea of the spaceship Axiom, who is the hero of our age [2].

Detweiler is the author of numerous books and director of numerous films (http://bit.ly/1d7lWx8). He has his doctoral degree from Fuller Theological Seminary (www.fuller.edu) and currently is a professor of communications and director of the Center for Entertainment, Media, and Culture at Pepperdine University (http://bit.ly/1ebWAOn) which is located in Malibu, CA. Because Hollywood has been at the cutting edge of both changing technology and social trends, just the Malibu address suggests that he might have some interesting insights.

Detweiler’s iGods is accessible, thoroughly researched, and fascinating to read. He concludes that social media provide tools that redefines many of the assumptions of how we live, think, and work that are neither intrinsically good or bad. In terms of the scientific method, Detweiler has moved discussion from focusing on felt needs to defining the scope of the social media problem [3]. In the midst of chaotic social and technological change, the task of problem definition is typically the hardest. Detweiler has done us a great service. This is a book that smart people will notice.

[1] For years I have described scientific discovers as nothing more than God’s little Easter Eggs hidden in places where he knew his kids would find them.

[2] Pixar Film 2008. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WALL-E.

[3] The steps often employed in the scientific method are: felt need, problem definition, observation, analysis, decision, and responsibility bearing. Stephen W. Hiemstra. June 2009. “Can Bad Culture Kill a Firm?” pages 51-54 of Risk Management. Society of Actuaries. Accessed: 18 February 2014. Online: http://bit.ly/1cmnQ00.

[Jeff Garrison · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an enlightening book. A substantial part of the book is an overview of the rise of computer giants in the internet age. But as the history of these organizations (Apple, Amazon, Google, Facebook and a few others) are discussed, the author delves into the social and theological implications of this shift in technology. Detweiler does not condemn the rapid advance in technology nor does he just focus on the negative side of the internet. He celebrates the positive impact of much of this technology and how it helps us handle the vast amount of information available. He reminds us that God was the first technological genius when, at creation, he brought order into the chaos (something the Google does with every search). Using a Greek word study of tekton (the word translated as carpenter in the New Testament), Detweiler reminds us that Jesus was essentially involved in the technology of his age. We’re not to be afraid of technology. Yet, at the same time, he feels a need to put the “iGods” in their proper place. He reminds his readers of their purpose and limitations. Although we have a tendency to place “blind trust” in technology, we must remember that our trust and faith belong to another realm.

Detweiler, in digging into the human call in Genesis to “cultivate,” reminds us of our need to organize. Our use of technology is linked to our calling by God. But we have to be careful. Thanks to the iPhone, as one of Detweiler’s sources points out, “we have evolved from a culture of instant gratification to one of constant gratification.” Today, we’re “tempted to relate to the iPhone rather than the world.” (65) Have we replaced God with Google’s algorithms? Will “I’ll google it” replace “I’ll pray about it”? (117) Can we really trust Google when our own search history leads to “confirmation bias” and our self-selecting of friends on Facebook supports our own ideas about the world. In this manner, instead of this technology leading to a more open society, we feed our own biases. Although there is a “democracy” to Facebook (freedom to like comments), it also results in targeted marketing. In the end, social media supports the “hyper-partisanship in Washington” and can lead to our own “faith bubbles.”. (122-3)

The “Google Doctrine” may be changing the world, but it’s not as free as one might think. Although social media has helped spur revolution and the downfall of brutal dictators, such brutes have caught on. Misinformation is a problem. A study of the 2011 protests in Russia found that half the tweets sent out were by “bots” used by the government to counter the protests. (193). While Twitter is often condemned for being too short to have said anything meaningful, Detweiler reminds us that in a world where we are drowning in information, there is something refreshing about reducing ideas to their simple base (“an electronic haiku”). Humorously, he links Twitter to the book of Proverbs in the Bible, which he refers to as the “original Twitterverse” (184)

Detweiler reminds his readers of our need for “Sabbaths.” We need to step away from social media as a way to remind ourselves what is important. Although the “iGods” taunt us with faster speeds, we should remember that the Bible lifts up the virtue of patience. We should “celebrate technology as a gift, but resist the temptation to prostrate ourselves before it.” (225)

Although some will find this book deep, it is well-written and should be read by anyone wanting to understand the implications of this new technological world. Detweiler quotes theologians, sociologists, historians, and philosophers. However, the reading is not easy. I am sure many, especially those who may not be comfortable in the many disciplines from which he draws, may find the way Detweiler shifts from one paragraph to the next from a discussion of technology to theological to issues of faith or social importance a bit confusing.

[Zee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Given some of the other reviews and the topic I was expecting a lackadaisical description of the problem preceding an unimaginative and self-proclaimed “profound” solution, but this book impressed. Neither the faith community’s tendency to speak aloofly nor an uninspiring diatribe on material topics is present here, and I found myself considering new concepts and highlighting more than expected. The Facebook section was dull but overall this is a deserved read on the topic.

[C.J. Stunkard · Rating 4 out of 5]

NOTE: I received a review copy of this book from the publisher.

Christians are called to be sober-minded and intentional. The Bible’s writers exhort us to put aside childish ways of thinking and “old practices” of immorality and apathy in pursuit of a life that brings glory to God through all facets of our being—heart, soul, and mind. This is a high calling, to be sure; but for the Christian who desires Christ’s honor and the Lord’s will above all else, the challenge is welcome.

As are works and books that aid us along our path.

iGods by Craig Detweiler is one such tool. Part philosophical tome, part historical narrative, the book outlines concerns for the mindful person in the digital age, cautioning the reader against pure consumerism regarding the behemoths of the online landscape. This is a warning worth our attention, for the perceived demands of online media (like the very blog your reading, likely linked through a social networking site) tend to be making us less engaged but more entertained, living lives of increased information but diminished experience.

Because of the cultural context in which we find ourselves, iGods will prove a valuable conversation starter for any reader, particularly those who take an holistic approach to life, whether they are experiencing the digital sphere or reality.

And make no mistake, there is a difference; Detweiler points us to it and comments on how the former affects the latter, how both can be integrated, and why this is important. This is not light reading for one’s five-minute daily devotional; this is a “heady” book (some might call it a “thinking book"). Detweiler is not interested in simple practices or black and white solutions, he desires to navigate the grey (and do so well, despite prevailing attitudes or assumptions).

Even as Detweiler tackles the “worship” of technology itself as well as our implicit “faith” in the various sites to which we give so much attention and time, his tone is never terse, judgmental, or rigid. Rather, the author communicates the need for constant adaptability and grace, as if he knows that the practices he encourages will continue to change by necessity given the ever-shifting sea of devices and sites that claim our time, energy, and attention.

Dense philosophical musings bookend the work, and a wealth of topics receive useful attention between them. Every chapter, from the rise of Amazon to the programming of YouTube, is well-written and thoroughly engaging. It’s the type of book that makes one pause and think, “huh, I had not considered that” or “oh, I definitely act that way online (much to my shame)”, and so forth.

For the non-Christian, iGods serves as a vivid and accessible picture of the current digital landscape, and eventually the book will mark itself as a time capsule of the considerations wrought as a result of emerging “mobiquity” ("Mobile/ubiquity"; not mine, it’s in the book). For the Christian reader, however, the book offers more, for it rebuffs the generally accepted notions of online cultural conduct. Whereas the sites in question tell us to treat ourselves, post our thoughts, or build our platform, iGods suggests that the Christian may need to deny him/herself, share Biblical encouragement, and serve others’ interests. Of course, this are just a few rest stop the book visits along its tour of the information superhighway (if we are even calling it that anymore).

iGods is not for all readers, but I would highly recommend it for some. Indeed, it’s the type of work that proves that Biblical Christian thought is ever-relevant and applicable despite the endless change that happens around it. And we need those kinds of works.

[Nance Roepke · Rating 1 out of 5]

Didn't finish it

We read this book in my Christian book club. It is not the type of book that I would generally read and I found it very slow going. I ended up reading the conclusions of each chapter rather than all the justifications for the author's conclusions. For my part, I can't recommend the book.

[Cole Ragsdale · Rating 3 out of 5]

Insightful look into the power of design and culture. Detweiller makes use of relevant illustrations to prove technologies temptation to become like God. Despite this sometimes irresistible temptation, technology can be a platform for a theology of abundance.

[Rob O'Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

In iGods: How Technology Shapes Our Spiritual and Social Lives, professor and cultural commentator Craig Detweiler offers an insightful look into the "apps" that have most impacted Western culture.

He offers analyses of Apple (tech platform), Amazon and Google (search engines), and Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube (social media), focusing on the humble origins of each of these applications and the ascent to "iGod" status that each of these had experienced.

Overall, Detweiler's analysis is spot-on. He is someone who was raised on iOS, has shopped a lot on Amazon, conducted a lot of searches on Google, and is connected deeply in social media.

Yet, at the same time, there is a propensity to remember our human side, to remember that we were not created to stare at screens but to stare into the radiant face of God as reflected in the less radiant faces of our neighbors.

Although he does not offer this advice, the advice offered to Neo in The Matrix is appropriate: "It sounds like you need to unplug." In the end, Detweiler's conclusion is that we must maintain of humanity, our God-created-ness. And the way to do so is to not check our news feeds.

This is a thorough introduction to the "iGods." It may be a little rudimentary technically for those who are regularly engaged in the world of digital and social media, however his theological assessments and philosophical insights are certainly worth the "cost of admission."

I must, however, note that his conclusions are either cliche or, more likely, not completely formed. Especially in his concluding chapter, it seems as if a truly challenging thought is just about to be revealed yet never fully is. Also, as is the case with technology, some of this material is already dated (the book was published in 2013).

That being said, this is certainly an important book for people of faith to not only be aware of but to wrestle with and digest intellectually. We live in a digital age. The revolution will not be televised; it is being tweeted 140 characters at a time. And it is a revolution that people of faith must engage.

[Donna Kimball · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book fascinating from the first few pages. Mr Detweiler looks at how technology has become our new 'idol'. We are all fascinated with newer, faster, better technology--and Mr Detweiler looks at how that has focused our lives. With our almost symbiotic relationship with all this technology, have we put this as our new "god-figure"? Mr Detweiler puts forth a very convincing argument that we have. I am not a total Luddite when it comes to technology: I have a computer, I subscribe to cable TV, I have an e-reader(not a fancy tablet, a basic reader), I have a 'dumb' phone. As a historian and 19th century re-enactor, I am oftentimes more comfortable with simpler technology, but do utilize 'modern inventions' for information gathering, keeping in touch with friends, and for keeping up to date with news and new information from around the world: I am a news junkie and the internet assists me there. I am not someone who needs to be constantly in touch with the 'technological' idol, but do find when it is ripped asunder, I can cope with more 'human' methods of interface and technology gathering.
Mr Detweiler makes us all take a good look at how much we depend on technology, and if this is a healthy relationship or not. I do feel this book could be the 'Global Village' by Marshall McLuhan of our generation: he certainly makes you stop and think about YOUR interaction with technology and if it is healthy or not: it surely made me stop and think

[Noble Mathew · Rating 4 out of 5]

“No one can serve two masters”. The author senses the concept of iGod and how technology has become a God for us, how it has shaped our thinking pattern and decisions. It was God who was the first technologist who put a tool in our hands and challenged us to till the earth. We have been reproducing ever since to harvest iGods into our habitat.
We must celebrate technology as a gift but resist the temptation to prostrate ourselves before it. We must not let it fashion and mold us into its insistent (now!), efficient (faster!), and greedy (more!) image. We must embrace our limits while expanding our hunger for knowledge and understand that’s practical wisdom. The temptation of Google goes back to the garden – to become like God. The lure of Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter is to build a platform to elevate us as iGods. The proper response remains just as timeless—resist temptation. Acknowledge how little we know despite the resources available. Practice humility because the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Employ technology as a lifesaving ark, packed with God-given diversity, extending an olive branch. Hence let not our theology be of lavishness that resembles an inexhaustible guest list and a bottomless cup with the use of technology.

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I like about the book:

The history of: Apple, Amazon, Google, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter. A good background helps the reader understand more fully and completely.

The author brings out some interesting observations about how social media is changing our lives, for the good or better. Do we rely on Google, for our answers, or to God? Has Google become all powerful by knowing who we are, and anticipating not only our needs, but our questions as well? Is it, "In Google I trust?" How is Facebook, shaping us? The author does not necessarily give us the answers. He raises more reflective sighs.

What I wish he had mentioned:
You Tube, has a lot of sexually inappropriate materials. Some which You Tube, rejects right away; while other content, is allowed to stay. There appears to be no consistency, as to what the censors find as being unsuitable. You Tube has "soft" porn. Kids, can find such video's, unless the parents keep an eye on the content being watched. Facebook, also has content, that may not be suitable viewing for minors.

Overall:
I found the book to be an easy read. It is a book worth reading, if social media, has any interest to you.

[Jamie Pennington · Rating 4 out of 5]

First Reads review. I received the book for free from Goodreads so that I would review the book. This was a great book. The first half was absolutely fascinating and I learned a whole lot. The second half turned into a bit more of commentary and editorial review of the technological world we live in today. Over all hoewever I gretaly enjoyed the book.
Several times the author did cause me to stop and examine my own technology use and as a result I have even changed some of my behavior. I think this is partly what the author intended. I would recomend the book.

[Naomi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Detweiler invites christian religious communities to consider how our technologies shape us and how the church may best respond in teaching how to place technologies in perspective and use them wisely. For example, knowing that we learn impatience from one form of technology, how will we work with that impatience within our religious institutions, as people of faith, to relearn patience in an impatient world? Good conversation starter among religious leadership and in christian communities of faith.

[Gabriel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend that anyone that desires to understand a theology of technology read this book.

My understanding of tech has shifted over the years and recently I've thought through how tech has changed my life. I've seen myself go from being too reliant on tech to wanting to use tech as a tool to glorify God but too often I've seen the idolatry in my own heart. This book has really got me thinking some changes have to be made on my part.

[Lauren Tomlinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing!! It convicted me and challenged me and gave me a lot to think about. I highly encourage everyone to read this book. It definitely sheds an interesting light on Christians in a world filled with iGods.

[Rebecca Hundley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book. It would be great for a church study. It would be interesting to have an inter-generational study to hear what high school students or college students think about it along with older adults. It is written with questions at the end of each chapter.

[Ken · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was disappointed with this book. This book seemed to be more "worship of Steve Jobs" than theologically understanding how technology affects our lives.

Detweiller should have developed his theological stances and critiques much better.

[Seth Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book well written, concise, challenging, and full of fascinating thoughts that require further reflection and study. A great introductory text to technology from a Christian theological points of view. Highly recommend.

[D · Rating 2 out of 5]

iGods: tech snack

iGods raised some good questions (but also created new ones) while leaving far too many unanswered. I was left wishing for something more biblically and theologically (and practically) substantial.

[Katherine Pershey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent theological analysis of technology, and the devices/sites/companies that are at the center of the technological universe. At times a pretty sobering read.