Are technological advances beneficial?
Throughout history, humanity has strived to enhance the quality of life through labor and abilities. Today, with the aid of science and technology, humans have gained immense control over nature and continue to expand this dominion.
In light of this monumental endeavor that encompasses the entire human race, people are pondering a series of inquiries. What is the meaning and value of all this activity? How should these advancements be utilized? Ultimately, where do the efforts of individuals and communities lead?
St. Josemaría had answered these questions of the 2nd Vatican Council highlighting the sanctifying dimension of human work, made with human perfection, rectitude of intention and union with Jesus.
Those who believe in God assume that man's activity, be it individual or collective, aligns with God's purpose. Christians, far from perceiving the accomplishments achieved through human intelligence and strength as a challenge to God's power, regard them as evidence of God's grandeur and the result of His marvelous providence.
Clearly, the Christian message does not deter individuals from contributing to the development of the world or prompt them to neglect the well-being of their fellow humans. Instead, it places a greater responsibility on them to work towards these objectives.
"All work, without exception, testifies to the dignity of man and his authority over creation. It presents an opportunity for personal growth, fosters bonds with others, supports one's family, and contributes to the progress of society and humanity as a whole."
"For Christians, these horizons expand even further. Work becomes a participation in God's creative work. When He created and blessed man, He commanded him to be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it. Furthermore, since Christ took hold of it, work has been redeemed and holds redemptive power for us. It is not just a backdrop to one's life; rather, it becomes a means and path to holiness. It is something to be sanctified, and something that sanctifies."
"Hence, humans should not confine themselves to mere material production. Work arises from love; it is an expression of love, and is aimed at love. We perceive the hand of God not only in the wonders of nature, but also in our experience of work and effort. Thus, work becomes prayer and thanksgiving, because we know we are placed on earth by God, that we are loved by him and made heirs to his promises."
"For a Christian, these horizons extend and grow wider, as work is a participation in the creative work of God. Furthermore, since Christ took it upon himself, work has become a redeemed and redemptive reality for us. It is not just the backdrop of human life, but also a means and a path to holiness. Work is something to be sanctified, and it is something that sanctifies us.
“It is important to remember that the dignity of work is rooted in love. Man's great privilege is the ability to love and transcend that which is fleeting and ephemeral. We can love other creatures, forming meaningful connections through the pronouncement of 'I' and 'you.' And we can love God, who opens heaven's gates to us, makes us part of his family, and allows us to speak to him in friendship, face to face."
Excerpts From "Gaudium et Spes" and from St. Josemaría.
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