The governance of modern technology as a fundamental dimension of human ecology
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24310/nyl.20.2026.21915Keywords:
human ecology, integral ecology, technocratic paradigm, theology of technology, Anthropocene, Environmental EthicsAbstract
The paper presents the concept of human ecology in the teachings of the last three popes, with a particular emphasis on both the role of the relationship between humans and technology for human ecology, as well as the doctrinal development that progresses toward a non-instrumental understanding of modern technology based on the concept of the technocratic paradigm developed by Pope Francis. In a second part, the essential elements for understanding the ethical problem posed by modern technology are proposed, particularly concerning the relationship between humans and the environment. Finally, the essential elements for a theological understanding of this mediation of technology in the relationship are outlined, as well as the fundamental insights that Catholic theology has developed to define it. The article concludes by indicating how it is a necessary development of the concept of human ecology to incorporate the need to regulate humanity's immense technological power, so that it can become a complete paradigm that normatively expresses the way humans relate to themselves and to Creation.
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