Shaping a Digital World: Faith, Culture and Computer Technology
"Schuurman's book is a rare jewel: rare because it is unusual to find genuinely helpful and insightful material on a Christian approach to computer science, a jewel because the author combines impeccable credentials as an engineer with wide reading in history, theology and philosophy to produce a readable and insightful treatment of the topic. I recommend it highly." (Al Wolters, Redeemer University College)"Reflecting a deep understanding of both computer technology and of biblical truths, Derek Schuurman draws parallels between the two that enlighten our understanding and deepen our faith. He shows how a field as technical as computer science can be relevant to spirituality, encouraging every one of us to connect our vocation with our faith. Anyone dabbling in technology and interested in scriptural teaching would benefit from his insights." (Randy Isaac, executive director of the American Scientific Affiliation)"What does it mean to be a Christian in today's high-tech world? This one-of-a-kind book deftly mixes computing technologies and biblical wisdom with the thoughts of people like Fred Brooks, Jacques Ellul, Donald Knuth, Marshall McLuhan, Plato, Neil Postman, Eric Raymond, Linus Torvalds and Sherry Turkle. The result is a heady brew exploring the implications of Christianity for our digital lives. Engagingly written, this book is a must-read for high-tech Christians interested in the question of how their faith and their technology relate to one another." (Joel Adams, professor of computer science, Calvin College)"The little machines we now hold in our hands are not neutral. We make them, but they mold us. This book is an invitation to first recognize this and then think through its implications. Neither reactionary dismissal nor uncritical embrace, Schuurman roots technology in a biblical theology of culture, demonstrating that the Reformational tradition has gifts to offer the wider church. A fresh resource for Christian reflection on both computer science and our everyday digital lives." (James K. A. Smith, Gary & Henrietta Byker Professor of Applied Reformed Theology and Worldview, Calvin College)"There are many books on technology. This book is exceptional and very special. Everyone who wants to understand the real meaning of the digital world has to read this biblically oriented and wise book." (Egbert Schuurman, professor emeritus at the universities of Delft, Eindhoven and Wageningen, and author of Technology and the Future: A Philosophical Challenge)