The concept of agency plays a big role in the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In some cases, when something is inherently wrong, the brethren counsel against it. However, when a medium is open to be used for righteous or evil purposes, general authorities will praise the good and warn of the bad. Instead of completely forbidding the medium (see BYU-YouTube 2007-09), they encourage members to take advantage of it for the benefit of others. With the constant emergence of new technology, church teachings continue to acknowledge the agency of its members. After reading Using Social Media for Gospel Purposes I felt empowered by the church’s invitation to use social media while being wary of its dangers. The feeling was comparable to that of a young man whose father buys him a new car and says “Here you go! Drive safely!” I’m grateful that the general authorities of the church were inspired to see the good that social media can provide and hope that, as new technology emerges, they will continue to invite us to exercise our agency and choose to do good with the tools we are given.
It would be so much easier if things were inherently good or evil and really couldn't be used for the other purpose, but its like God wants us to judge how to use these things, like he wants us to learn for ourselves or something.
ReplyDeleteThat's the beautiful thing about modern technology. It's an embodiment of the concept of opposition in all things. Being guided by correct principles, we can make use of technology for good. I believe it's imperative on us who understand that we be a driving force for good, helping lead the world in the good use of technology.
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