Theology, philosophy and technology : perspectives from the Hervormde Kerk

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Authors

Dreyer, Willem Akkerhuys (Wim)

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Abstract

This contribution is located in the field of Historical Theology. It gives an overview (postWorld War II) of the philosophical-theological discourse on technology and humanity, articulated by academics who were members and ordained ministers of the Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk van Afrika (NHKA). It serves to illustrate the close relationship between theology and philosophy within the theological tradition of the NHKA. The author concludes that there is a growing realisation that it is not primarily about technology anymore, but about humanity. In theology, there is a fundamental concern for the well-being of humanity. Theologians would forsake their responsibility if they would stay quiet on something, which is not only transforming our world view and morality, but humanity itself. CONTRIBUTION: The current discourse on technology tends to be dominated by economists, engineers, information technology specialists, jurists and medical specialists. As a result, technology takes the centre stage, emphasising the benefits of technological progress. Because of the radical impact of technology on humanity, disciplines such as history, philosophy, sociology, psychology and theology are becoming increasingly important discussion partners.

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DATA AVAILABITY STATEMENT: Data sharing is not applicable to this article as no new data were created or analysed in this study.

Keywords

Science, Technology, Theology, Heidegger, Plessner, Löwith, Dreyer, Oberholzer, Philosophical anthropology, Pretoria School of Philosophy, Human existence, Progress, Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk van Afrika (NHKA)

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Citation

Dreyer, W.A., 2024, ‘Theology, philosophy and technology: Perspectives from the Hervormde Kerk’, HTS Teologiese Studies/ Theological Studies 80(1), a9220. https://doi.org/10.4102/hts.v80i1.9220.