The Hidden Power of Electronic Culture
9 Comments Published by Jake on Monday, July 10, 2006 at Monday, July 10, 2006.
Our next Atlanta Emergent Cohort will be held on Tuesday, July 25 from 8-10pm at Rock Bottom Brewery in Buckhead. This month we will be discussing Shane Hipps' book, The Hidden Power of Electronic Culture: How Media Shapes Faith, The Gospel, and Church.Hipps offers an illuminating analysis of the myriad ways that electronic mediums influence the ways we understand ourselves in the world, process information, and relate to others. His work is based off of the sociological musings of Marshall McLuhan, a man of profound influence on communications theory during the mid-60s to mid-70s. Hipps coaxes church leaders to develop a critical appropriation of media technologies following a lucid socio-historical explanation of the ways media have altered Western societies.
Hipps brings into conversation the work of two philosophers of culture: McLuhan and megachurch pastor, Rick Warren. Hipps quotes Warren as saying, "Our message must never change, but the way we deliver that message must be constantly updated to reach each new generation." In other words, Warren bifurcates the message we are trying to convey with the means used to convey said message. As Warren's interlocutor, McLuhan avers, "The medium is the message." Hence, for McLuhan, the message and mediums used to communicate are inextricable. In a world that is being inundated with new forms of technology everyday, this conversation is certainly apropos as we explore what it means to be faithful communicators of the gospel in our postmodern world.
So, have a go with Hipps' book and bring your questions, insights, rants and stories as we explore this pertinent topic in light of the church that is emerging in 21st Century culture.
[UPDATE: In case you don't have time to read the whole book before our cohort meeting, Shane Hipps has recently posted an excerpt from his book and another post here on the Out of Ur blog. The comments that follow his posts are quite interesting. Check it out if you have a chance.]
I am looking forward to it. I'll be there...
hey I want to be there.
o'well.
you guys are doing a great job with this cohort.
and nice meeting you last month james.
Looks like I can be there this month. Looking forward to it as always!
Is there ever a meeting in the Columbus area? I just moved from Portland, Oregon and miss a lively discussion on relevant issues.
I'm on the road this week and will not be in Atlanta this Tuesday. You guys are on my mind and in my prayers.
Have a great gathering. I will read the excerpts and look forward to hearing the feedback when I get back.
God bless.
I have posted some info about last night's cohort on my blog for those of you who were unable to attend (http://www.theofragen.com/2006/07/atlanta-cohort-conversation.html). Peace.
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