Anthropologies of Entanglements: Media and Modes of Existence

The concept of anthropocene has stimulated a new examination of ideas about human agency and responsibility, focusing on relational concepts and the situatedness and embodiment of human and non-human existences and experiences. This volume explores the concept of anthropomedial entanglements, fostering an understanding of human bodies, experiences, and media as immanently entangled and mutually constituting.

Format: Hardback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 21 September 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

The relationship between media and human modes of existence is a complex and ever-evolving one, with media playing a significant role in shaping and influencing our lives. The notion of the anthropocene has brought about a renewed examination of ideas about human agency and responsibility, highlighting the interconnectedness of human and non-human existence. Various approaches within this field emphasize relational concepts and the situatedness and embodiment of human and non-human experiences.

Previously, the focus of inquiry had been on so-called "human nature," but now the emphasis has shifted to the multitude of cultural, topographical, technical, historical, social, discursive, and media formats with which human existences are entangled. This volume aims to bring together a diverse range of thinkers from international backgrounds to explore these important reflections and ideas.

In particular, the volume focuses on the concept of anthropomedial entanglements, which suggests that human bodies, experiences, and media are inherently entangled and mutually constituting, preceding any possible distinction between them. The contributions in this volume thus engage in a dialogue between empirical case studies and media-historical research, as well as the conceptual work of media and cultural philosophies and aesthetics.

One key theme that emerges from the contributions is the recognition of the embodied nature of human experience. The authors argue that our bodies are not merely passive recipients of media but active agents that shape and are shaped by media. This embodied perspective highlights the importance of considering the physical and sensory aspects of our interactions with media, as well as the emotional and psychological impact they have on us.

Another important theme is the role of technology in mediating our relationships with others and the world around us. The authors explore how technology has transformed the way we communicate, connect, and interact with each other, and how it has created new opportunities and challenges for human agency and responsibility. They also consider the ethical implications of technology, such as privacy, surveillance, and the distribution of information.

The volume also addresses the relationship between media and cultural practices and representations. The authors argue that media plays a crucial role in shaping cultural norms, values, and beliefs, and that it can perpetuate or challenge existing power structures. They explore how media representations of different groups and individuals can influence public opinion and social attitudes, and how media can be used to promote social justice and equality.

In conclusion, this volume offers a rich and diverse exploration of the complex relationship between media and human modes of existence. It highlights the importance of considering the situatedness and embodiment of human and non-human experiences, as well as the role of technology in mediating our relationships with others and the world. The contributions provide valuable insights into the ways in which media shapes and influences our lives, and they offer a framework for understanding the ethical and social implications of media consumption and production.

Dimension: 216 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501375149