People of the Screen: How Evangelicals Created the Digital Bible and How It Shapes Their Reading of Scripture

People of the Screen explores the history of Bible software app development, highlighting the impact of evangelical entrepreneurs and coders on shaping its functionality and influencing reading habits worldwide. It argues that evangelical creators have a distinct orientation called Hopeful Entrepreneurial Pragmatism (HEP), which enables them to lead the digital Bible market. The book offers a nuanced view of the ecosystem, combining historical research, interviews, and fieldwork with digital and print Bible readers. It suggests that the future of Bible engagement involves a mix of print, audio, and screens, and that the God of the page and the God of the screen may say different things.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 12 January 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

People of the Screen delves into the captivating history of Bible software app development, unveiling the profound and influential role of evangelical entrepreneurs and coders in shaping its functionality and, in turn, influencing the reading habits of millions worldwide. This comprehensive exploration spans from the early desktop applications to pioneering Bible websites, to the emergence of mobile apps and immersive virtual experiences. Through meticulous examination, the book argues that evangelical creators possess a distinct orientation toward societal change and technology, known as Hopeful Entrepreneurial Pragmatism (HEP). This unique perspective positions them as leaders in the digital Bible market, infusing their creations with evangelical interpretations of Scripture's nature and purpose.

This book offers a rich tapestry of historical research, insightful interviews with developers, and firsthand observations of digital and print Bible readers. It provides a nuanced understanding of the intricate ecosystem comprising publishers, developers, pastors, institutions, and software companies. Rather than suggesting a replacement of print Bibles with digital ones, author John Dyer presents a vision of the future where readers embrace a blend of print, audio, and screens to suit their individual needs and community. He cautions that sometimes the God of the page may differ from the God of the screen, indicating that we are still in the early stages of a multimedia approach to scripture.

People of the Screen is a groundbreaking work that sheds light on the dynamic interplay between technology, faith, and cultural shifts. It underscores the significant contributions of evangelical entrepreneurs and coders in shaping the future of Bible engagement, offering a roadmap for readers to navigate the digital landscape while staying true to their evangelical roots.

Weight: 514g
Dimension: 244 x 170 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197636350