I really want to bridge the gap in our world. I really want to tear down the walls of the “digital divide.” Steve spoke tonight at church and I got all inspired again. Remmembering why I am doing what I am doing.
During the first half of his talk I felt like this stuff I am doing, like the whole India trip doesn’t help anyone much. But then I got thinking more and decided that, yes it is important. I think the digital divide is a bloody big issue.
For the first time in human history information and knowledge isn’t tied up in books. It’s freely accessible on the net. Communication is nearly instantaneous and very cheap. The world is suddenly much smaller.
The problem is that access to the net, and the skills required to access it aren’t freely availible. This means that whilst many people in the developed world profit from the net and computers in general others are left behind. The arguement for why they have been left behind is cost.
But really there’s no need for people to be left behind. It wouldn’t cost much to fix these issues though. Hardware is becoming VERY cheap, and the software to connect people is FREE. Why then are people being left behind?
I don’t really understand it. I think it’s mainly people just aren’t prepared to commit resources to it or are trying to make lots of money out of it. The other problem is people don’t think about these things creatively. The thing about technology is that it is limited primarly by the imagination. The problem is solving the right problem.
Lot’s of people are working towards addressing the issue. There is though lots of work to be done.
What though does this have to do with God and the Bible?
1) Freedom.
Technology provides a greater freedom to people who can access it. Through this free access people are free to learn. It is also a good way to provide access to extended Christian communities.
2) Helping the poor.
I believe technology provides a chance to break the cycle of poverty.
3) Helping those who help the poor.
Technology can play a big background role in assisting those who help the poor. Easing the management of organisations, keeping records and communicating with partner organisations. All these help the organisations to concentrate on helping people, giving them more time and money. I guess helping in that area falls under the administration spiritual gift.
4) Come up with your own creative way technology can help people. There are many ways.
The third point is the the focus of my India trip. I hope I end up doing some good there.
Anyway that’s a long enough rant I think.
Good night.
God Stuff