Michael Morelli: Jacques Ellul & the Technological Society

Tripp Fuller

On this episode, I am joined by a leading Jacques Ellul scholar, Dr. Michael Morreli, as we unpack his reflections on technology, idolatry, modernity, and Christian Anarchism. If you enjoy the conversation, check out his book Theology, Ethics, and Technology in the Work of Jacques Ellul and Paul Virilio.

Michael Morelli is Assistant Professor of Theology & Ethics and Program Manager, Life-Long Learning at Northwest Seminary & College (a founding member of ACTS Seminaries, and affiliate of Trinity Western University). He holds a PhD in Theological Ethics from the University of Aberdeen, Scotland, is the author of Theology, Ethics, and Technology in the Work of Jacques Ellul and Paul Virilio: A Nascent Theological Tradition (2021), and editor of Desert, Wilderness, Wasteland, and Word: A New Essay by Jacques Ellul and Five Critical Engagements (2023). He publishes and presents on a variety of topics within the fields of theology, morality, culture, politics, and technology. He has also worked in local church ministry and continues to serve the church in a lay capacity.

Follow Michael’s work on Twitter: @mchlmorelli

• 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Dr. Morelli
• 04:31 Michael Morelli’s Academic Journey
• 14:03 Jacques Ellul’s Background and Influences
• 19:25 Understanding Technique and Its Implications
• 32:28 The Idol of Technology and Its Consequences
• 37:09 Power Dynamics and Non-Power in Modernity
• 46:54 The Dark Side of Innovation
• 47:12 War and Technology: A Chilling Connection
• 48:04 Propaganda and Political Power
• 51:29 The Seduction of Technology
• 54:39 The Role of Idols in Modern Society
• 57:42 The Ethics of War and Political Decisions
• 01:00:38 The Future of Technology and Society
• 01:14:16 Christian Anarchism and Local Governance
• 01:22:47 Hope and Despair in Modern Times
• 01:36:26 Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts

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