Background
Published in 2017, “The Tech-Wise Family: Everyday Steps for Putting Technology in Its Proper Place,” by Andy Crouch, explores how families can navigate the influence of technology in modern life. Crouch provides advice and insights on creating an intentional approach to tech use, encouraging families to foster deeper relationships, creativity, and spiritual growth. By prioritizing human connections and setting thoughtful boundaries around digital devices, the book aims to help families reclaim their time and attention from the distractions of the digital age.
My Thoughts
Distractions by technology have certainly been on the rise. However, it also gives us access to information and communication on a scale never seen in recorded history. I emphatically agreed with Crouch’s assertion that this technology needs to be regulated. While I do agree with the broad strokes of the message, I disagree on exactly how to go about implementing his vision. I will also give him credit for his disclaimers that he and his family are not perfect in their execution of his espoused ideals.
One section of the book resonated with me in particular. The idea that we have unprecedented access to all the best music in the world and yet make the least music of any time in history. While this could be seen as just another sector of specialization, I’d not thought about so many people never making music themselves. I sincerely hope almost everyone at least has the experience of singing in the shower as making music strikes me a fundamentally human activity. Maybe other specialities are as rewarding from neurosurgery to parkour. (PARKOUR!!!)
I am an optimist when it comes to technology. I sincerely believe most people will figure out their own balance and are not in need of the rules Crouch tries to follow. However, I salute his attempt to address the situation. I strongly believe parents need to support their children and, in most cases, that will require them to place reasonable boundaries on their activities. In theory, we (as parents) have the benefit of experience to give perspective to these boundaries. Yet, these disruptions are so new, many of us are still reeling with the changes. It may feel like it is the blind leading the blind here, yet I believe it is the same struggle as before. We, as humans, need to be intentional about our lives. We crave attachments and are easily bored with the shallow and vapid things of this life. It may take time, but I believe we each have to learn our own way and those of us smart enough to learn from others will have a distinct advantage.
Recommendation
A little preachy, but a good book.