Eastern Orthodoxy as a Resource of Ethics and Social Sustainability for the Challenges Faced by the Digital Transformation of Society

Abstract

This study focuses on the potential of harnessing the power of the local Eastern Orthodox religious teachings in creating a socially sustainable glocalized digital transformation for Romania. First, we investigated within the scientific literature the ways religion might impact social action, and where does spirituality intersect with digitalization. Second, we devised a questionnaire with items targeting religious styles and the perception of digitalization during the pandemic and in the foreseeable future along with inquiring about which institutions should get more involved in directing digital development. The sample was constituted of 170 adult residents from Bucharest and Constanta urban areas, most of them having graduated from university, with the sample being balanced between the engineering domains and the humanities domains of study. Thirdly, we employed statistical data analysis in order to explore differences in perception of risks, benefits, and in the desired action towards the digital transformation, between the different flavours of spirituality and religiousness. The aim of the study is to obtain valuable insights for creating a bridge between spiritual preachers, digital policymakers, and the civil society, driving development towards spiritually and economically sustainable goals, for a conscious society and a healthy environment.