Prof. Joshua Hochschild
"Demons assault us by the same mechanism and for the same reason as the ever adapting and insidious algorithm, in order to explore this inward disposition of man, to discern susceptibility to habits, and then by manipulating attention, to develop those habits. This sober realization paradoxically is the source of hope. Neither spiritual demons nor digital algorithms can directly violate our intellect and will. They seek them, but they can never possess them without our consent. The defense against the new dark arts of Silicon Valley thus relies on the same tools as ancient spiritual warfare, especially custody of our attention. Of course, demons attack weaknesses. Virtues have been called the spiritual armor protecting us from assault and it is vice that makes us vulnerable. But even here, demons need opportunity to attack. Advising Wormwood on effective methods of temptation, Screwtape warns against letting his target engage in basic exercises of will and reason: going for a walk, reading a book, even asking questions. These are all powerful human defenses against the distractions of the devil. Individual acts of thinking and choosing for oneself, exercising self-awareness and taking responsibility for one's actions and thoughts—the distinctive activities of the rational animal—are all safeguards against the soul-snatcher's designs." —Prof. Joshua Hochschild
How Is My iPhone Changing Me? Neuroscience and Thomistic Psychology | Prof. Joshua Hochschild
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