In many of our Christian lives and ministries we understand that as long as our message stays the same, it doesn't matter if our methods change. Shane Hipps challenges this line of thinking in Flickering Pixels, however, by using the hidden power of technology to demonstrate that changing our methods always leads to the changing of our message. In looking deeper at the methodologies of today's hi tech industries, Shane shows us that technology has the ability to shape our faith in unexpected ways. If we remain incognisant and uncritical of this undercurrent, the technologies we do use may in turn end up using us. Shane calls us to keep alive and awake in this modern digital age, as hidden things have far less power to shape us when they are no longer hidden. A stunning, brilliant and eye-opening look at how technology shapes faith and culture.
“The methods change, but the message stays the same.” This saying is the guiding light for faithful Christians in a changing world. But author Shane Hipps reveals the error in this thinking. Instead he demonstrates how changing the methods always changes the message. He shows us the hidden power of technology to shape our faith in unexpected ways.
Average Rating: 3 out of 5 stars(3 out of 5 stars)
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3 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Jennifer (Canada), April 25, 2009
Hipps’ work is unusual for a Christian non-fiction title; exploring not the tenets of the faith, but rather how technological advancements affect our faith.
The main thrust is the examination of how changes in the presentation of information affect our minds and understanding of said information. It’s really a great premise, well written, intellectually stimulating, and at times even witty. Moving through the print age, telegraph, radio, telephone, television, Internet and other forms of communication, Hipps details how the method — the media format itself — impacts our thought processes, and ultimately how we relate to those around us, the scriptures, and God Himself.
Hipps is careful to mix up his carefully constructed philosophical ponderings with a splash of fun and kept me moving quickly through his brief work.
Enough material is provided to stir the thought processes, prompt conversation, and provide a broad overview of the topic, while failing to deliver concrete suggestions and applications of the knowledge shared.
While lauding a discrete set of benefits that advances in media have provided, Hipps seems more concerned with pointing out the danger and the warning signs surrounding each technological advance and then recommending readers think about the impact these technologies have on their lives.
Maybe I’ve missed something here. Yes, I realize media changes us, and I agree with the many, valid, well-phrased explanations of such changes. The question remains, though, have Hipps exhortations to examine our media choices impacted my life significantly? I’m afraid not.
Whatever the case, media buffs aside, I doubt this work will capture the imagination of the work-a-day Christian reader.
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