Michael Sacasas - when should we take the long way round?

The Examined Life

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Michael Sacasas writes about technology and human flourishing through his wildly popular newsletter The Convivial Society. I have been reading his work for a number of years and find it both winsome and wise. It was delight to have the opportunity to speak to him about a question he thinks we should be asking ourselves.

In this conversation we explore the question of what humans should still do for themselves even when technology can do it better or more efficiently. This conversation challenges our assumptions about technological progress and asks us to consider what makes for a truly good human life.
• Technology often promises efficiency but requires us to question what we might be losing in the process
• Albert Borgman's concept of "focal things" versus "devices" helps us understand what's lost when we automate tasks
• Central heating removed family participation and togetherness that came with maintaining a hearth
• Writing by hand or thinking through drafts teaches us what we think in ways AI writing can't replace
• Even mundane tasks like washing dishes can provide valuable moments for reflection and conversation
• The Amish demonstrate thoughtful technology adoption by evaluating each innovation against community values
• Getting outdoors, learning names of plants and animals, and cooking together builds connection with the world
• Leading with positive practices rather than just limiting technology helps children understand family values
• Face-to-face encounters and "weak ties" with neighbors become increasingly important in our mediated world
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Chapters

1. Technology and Disconnection from Experience (00:00:00)

2. The Question of What Humans Should Still Do (00:08:40)

3. Central Heating and Lost Community Practices (00:15:30)

4. Writing, Dishes, and the Value of Process (00:29:05)

5. Human Care and Embodied Experience (00:35:10)

6. Finding Hope and Creating Human Connections (00:43:12)

7. Practical Family Life Applications (00:50:15)

8. Hospitality in an Age of Isolation (00:57:45)