The app that failed democracy: Technology and the providence of God

As I write this column, we are still awaiting results from the Iowa caucuses. The blame for the delay is being fixed on a mobile app that was supposed to streamline the process.

The app was built by a Washington, DC-based company
connected to a nonprofit digital strategy firm that assists progressive causes.
Precinct chairs were supposed to transmit caucus results through the app and by
a backup telephone system.

However, some chairs had trouble downloading or logging into
the app. Caucus workers who tried to call in results Monday night said they
were stuck on hold, some for over an hour.

The state Democratic Party said their paper records would allow them to conduct a full recount if needed. They could be called upon to do that now, given the technical difficulties with reporting the results.

We will presumably know the results of the Iowa caucuses
later today. But this will not be the last time that technology will fail to
deliver on its promises. Autonomous vehicles endanger passengers and
pedestrians. Mobile devices have made pornography more pervasive than ever.
Criminals use the “dark web” to hide from authorities.

The failure of the app in Iowa should not, however, provoke
a response greater than the problem.

Technology and the providence of God

Engaging more people in our political process through
technology and other means is essential to our political process. Autonomous
vehicles can enable drivers to become passengers who use their transit time
more effectively. Mobile devices can communicate biblical truth that combats
pornography and other pervasive temptations. Authorities can use technological
means to catch technological criminals.

Paul used the Roman highway system, the internet of his day,
to take the gospel across the Empire. He used epistles delivered by couriers,
the email of his day, to write half of the New Testament. I’m convinced that if
he were alive today, he would be using every…