The proliferation of electronic devices has introduced a greater opportunity to live a life separate, distinct, and hidden from those around us. With unlimited access to content and the ability to keep digital activity private, these devices can compromise one’s interior freedom. Children faced with these realities need clear guidance on how to use technology well. This lecture will provide parents with practical ideas on how to cultivate an attitude of prudence and detachment towards electronic devices. It will also include a discussion of filtering and other safety nets that parents can use to protect children from online dangers.

Talk Summary: The talk emphasizes the critical role of the father in modeling faith and virtue while selflessly serving the family.

Piety has three principal objects, namely God, parents, and country. The practice of one sort of piety aids the practice of the rest, which raises neglected questions: how can we encourage piety toward our country, especially when we see the country has, in many ways, lost its way. Dr. Mehan will address the special role of fathers in fostering piety of all sorts, but especially piety toward our country, the United States of America.