Imagine this: Desmond Tutu, Nobel Peace Prize winner, Archbishop, and human rights activist, magically transported to 2024. Picture him walking into a coffee shop where people are glued to their smartphones, the chatter about TikTok trends drowns out any serious conversation, and the Wi-Fi password is “YOLO2024.” What would he say about modern morality?
Let’s dive into this delightful thought experiment with a bit of humor, a dash of tech, and a sprinkle of Tutu wisdom.
Swipe Right for Morality?
First, let’s talk about how we define morality in this era of Instagram likes and AI-generated influencers. Would Desmond Tutu be thrilled about our digital lives? Probably not. He once said, “Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”
Now, think about it: Are we using our smartphones for these “little bits of good,” or are we just doom-scrolling? Imagine Tutu looking at someone’s screen time report on their iPhone or Samsung Galaxy. He’d probably raise an eyebrow and say, “What exactly is a BeReal, and why does it need you to post at 11:03 a.m. on the dot?”
Pro tip: Channel your inner Desmond. Use apps like GoodSAM, which connects people in need with nearby helpers, or ShareTheMeal from the UN to donate meals to hungry children. Moral action, one tap at a time.
The Netflix Morality Dilemma
Next up: binge culture. Have you ever justified spending your entire Sunday watching Netflix because, hey, you deserve it? Tutu might say, “Self-care is essential, but what about community care?” After all, he was a champion for ubuntu, the idea that “I am because we are.”
Instead of diving headfirst into another season of Too Hot to Handle, why not organize a watch party for a socially-conscious documentary like The Social Dilemma? Or better yet, mix in some altruistic fun. Platforms like Kiva.org let you fund small loans for entrepreneurs worldwide. You could make it a group activity: “Wine, Cheese, and Microloans Night.” Who’s in?
AI: A Blessing or a Curse?
Let’s address the algorithmic elephant in the room. Artificial Intelligence is everywhere, from recommending what’s for dinner (thanks, ChatGPT) to deciding who gets approved for a mortgage. Would Desmond Tutu trust the algorithms?
Probably not without a little side-eye. As he’d put it, “Morality is not just about avoiding harm, but actively promoting fairness and kindness.” So, when you’re using ChatGPT to write your wedding vows or MidJourney to design your new tattoo, think about ethical tech use. Are we letting algorithms reinforce biases or, better yet, dismantle them?
Practical tip: Stay informed about ethical tech. Follow organizations like The Center for Humane Technology or join online courses on AI ethics. Because if Desmond Tutu knew about deepfakes, he’d definitely have a sermon about that.
Virtue Signaling vs. Virtue Doing
If Tutu’s social media was anything like ours, it might feature perfectly-filtered photos of him posing with Nelson Mandela (#Blessed). But real talk: Tutu wouldn’t stop at the photo op. He’d roll up his sleeves and get to work.
In our world, it’s easy to confuse posting about a cause with actually doing something for it. Tutu might remind us, “True morality is more than a hashtag.” So, while it’s great to support Black Lives Matter or climate action online, pair that post with offline action. Volunteer. Donate. Show up.
Apps like VolunteerMatch or ioby can help you find local opportunities that match your passion, whether it’s cleaning up parks or tutoring kids. Remember, it’s not just about being seen doing good; it’s about doing good, period.
The Morality Playlist
Let’s not forget the power of music in shaping our actions. Tutu’s love for joyous celebration was part of his larger message: Hope and morality go hand in hand.
Why not curate a playlist to keep you motivated? Include classics like Bob Marley’s “One Love” or Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright.” Then, pair it with an action. Listening to “Man in the Mirror”? Make a donation to a homelessness charity before the song ends. Spotify and Apple Music aren’t just for vibing, they’re for values.
The Final Word
Desmond Tutu would probably look at our world and say, “You’ve got the tools, the tech, and the talent. Use them wisely.” And he’d be right. Morality in the modern era isn’t about rejecting technology but integrating it into lives filled with purpose and compassion.
So, next time you’re debating whether to double-tap or DM, ask yourself: What would Tutu do? And then, maybe, just maybe, use your phone to make the world a better place.
