Contemplative Computing

This is a very rough draft. I found these notes in my sketchbook and typed them up without editing. Will revisit this later.

Attention conservation notice: These are my loose thoughts on how we could be more contemplative or mindful in our usage of computers. You might be better served by thinking for yourself about such things, or going for a walk outside.

Recently, I re-read Chötrin’s little essay on Zen Computing. This inspired me to finally put fingers to keys and write this little note of my own. I often think about my own computer usage and sometimes wonder about what my life would be like if my enagement with computers was more contemplative or mindful. This note reflects on what that could look like.

Boringness as a feature. You don’t want to do boring things forever. You need to switch tasks. Contemplative practices are, by their very nature, somewhat boring. The modern internet is designed to be addictive.
Overuse of tools. I don’t get totally wrapped up in using, say, a corkscrew. I use it, accomplish the task, and move on.

Advices and Queries #

Consider which of the ways to happiness offered by society are truly fulfilling and which are potentially corrupting and destructive. Be discriminating when choosing means of entertainment and information. Resist the desire to acquire possessions or income through unethical investment, speculation or games of chance. – Advices and queries | Quaker faith & practice

Choose recreations that do not conflict with your service to God and man, and in that service, be willing to lay them aside. Be discriminating in the use of radio and television and other means of information, persuasion and entertainment. Give thought to the right use of Sunday with its special opportunities for both service and leisure. – An older Advices and Queries

Published: Feb 23, 2026 @ 20:50.
Last Modified: Jul 13, 2026 @ 16:45.

Contemplative Computing

Advices and Queries #

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