Ghost in the Machine(<Special Issue>Science, Technology, and Religion)

Abstract

This paper discusses the transformation of religion in a highly-informed society. The information system constructed through the network of radio, TV, mass media, and internet, has made remarkable advances. This rapid advance in information society requires changes in religiousness. My aim is not to discuss the circumstances that bring about some changes in religion, but to reveal how contemporary technology builds a systematic foundation on religious custom which differs from the idea of religious organizations or believers. The principle belief of this new system is not the relief of suffering for people nor world peace. The ethnic religious world that exists in our deepest mind, one's feelings of hatred and our self-interest-which sometimes goes to extremes based on this new system-are exaggeratedly and remarkably revealed in modern society.