A study of a christian conception of vocation in networked life: in dialogue with Oliver O’Donovan and Robert Adams

Thesis

In networked life, individuals are encouraged to live with a sense of limitlessness, and yet are provided with less, agency diminished, if not corrupted. Action within networked life seeks control or dominance in the material realm, such short-termism antithetical to freedom. These challenges are clearly presented, albeit from contrasting angles, in the work of the psychoanalyst Sherry Turkle and the sociologist Ronald Burt (contextualised by Marshall McLuhan, Jacques Ellul and George Grant), each converging on control as the aim of networked life.

We discover that networked life is, in its corrupted state, a life in the flesh. Networked life, however, can be redeemed. In this dissertation, I argue that a certain Christian conception of vocation is the way through networked life. Through discussion with Robert Adams and Oliver O’Donovan, vocation is defined as ‘An offering from God, involving an ensemble of worldly relations and created goods, through which we are given, in particular, to pursue excellence, realise our agency and serve God.’ I stress Adams’ focus on pursuit of excellence, but in a manner that is reflective of O’Donovan’s restraint.

Both interlocutors provide compelling conceptions of vocation, with ample opportunity for critical dialogue (this contextualised by Grisez, Bonhoeffer, Ellul, Stackhouse, Jr., Williams and others), particularly in areas such as faith, love and responsibility. Moreover, Adams proposes a theory of value grounding excellence in resemblance to the Transcendent Good, whereas O’Donovan embeds value in moral order, which seizes individuals. Each sees the measure of value as residing outside of individuals, discussion on value important in a world that otherwise prioritises the securing of short-term material advantage. This dissertation favours an evangelical Christian ethics, engaging constructively with networked life, and making use of its clear benefits, using such benefits for mutual service in the world, and in the ultimate service of God.

Authors: Csorba, E

• DOI: 10.5287/ora-5jyngamae
• Type of award: DPhil
• Level of award: Doctoral
• Awarding institution: University of Oxford
• Language: English
• Keywords: excellence; agency; service; calling; networks; vocation; infinite
• Subjects: Theology; Ethics; Social networks