Civilization: The Way We Live Now

Civilization explores how contemporary photography captures and communicates the way we live today, featuring stunning imagery and essays to reach a global audience.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 18 October 2018
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

The collective psyche is captivated by the notion that we are hurtling towards the future at an ever-increasing pace. Every day and every hour, human civilization continues to expand, evolve, and transform, marking a remarkable journey of progress. While we often celebrate the individual at the expense of the group, in various aspects of life such as science, art, work, play, home, and transit, we are increasingly living a collective life.

Civilization: A Visual Exploration of Contemporary Photography explores the fascinating relationship between contemporary photography, particularly art photography, and the way we live today. This groundbreaking publication is accompanied by an internationally touring exhibition, curated by the Foundation for the Exhibition of Photography, a global cultural event that brings together a diverse audience for a global subject.

Presented through eight thematic chapters, each accompanied by breathtaking imagery and complemented by essays, quotes, commentaries, and captions, Civilization offers a deeper understanding of its themes. With a visually epic and ambitiously popular approach, the book aims to transcend the boundaries of the photography world and connect with audiences worldwide.

The first chapter, titled "Collective Identity," delves into the ways in which photography captures and reflects the collective identity of communities and societies. It explores the role of photography in shaping public perception, promoting social change, and preserving cultural heritage. Through stunning images and thought-provoking essays, the chapter highlights the power of photography to document and celebrate the diversity of human experiences.

The second chapter, titled "Collective Memory," explores the role of photography in capturing and preserving collective memories. It examines how photographs become symbols of historical events, personal experiences, and cultural traditions, and how they shape our understanding of the past. Through powerful images and insightful commentary, the chapter explores the emotional and psychological impact of photographs on individuals and communities.

The third chapter, titled "Collective Experience," examines the ways in which photography captures and communicates collective experiences. It explores the role of photography in capturing the essence of events, places, and people, and how it can evoke emotions and create a sense of shared understanding. Through stunning images and thought-provoking essays, the chapter explores the ways in which photography can transcend language barriers and connect people from different backgrounds.

The fourth chapter, titled "Collective Consumption," explores the relationship between photography and consumer culture. It examines how photography is used to promote products, services, and lifestyles, and how it shapes our perceptions of beauty, desire, and identity. Through powerful images and thought-provoking essays, the chapter explores the ethical implications of consumerism and the role of photography in perpetuating it.

The fifth chapter, titled "Collective Space," examines the role of photography in capturing and representing collective spaces. It explores how photographs create a sense of place and identity, and how they shape our understanding of urban environments, natural landscapes, and cultural heritage sites. Through stunning images and insightful commentary, the chapter highlights the ways in which photography can preserve and celebrate the beauty of the world around us.

The sixth chapter, titled "Collective Action," explores the role of photography in capturing and promoting collective action. It examines how photographs can inspire social change, raise awareness of social issues, and mobilize communities towards a common goal. Through powerful images and thought-provoking essays, the chapter explores the power of photography to bring about positive change in the world.

The seventh chapter, titled "Collective Identity," explores the role of photography in capturing and celebrating collective identities. It examines how photographs can create a sense of belonging and community, and how they can promote diversity and inclusivity. Through stunning images and thought-provoking essays, the chapter highlights the ways in which photography can challenge stereotypes and promote understanding between different cultures and communities.

The eighth and final chapter, titled "Collective Futures," explores the role of photography in capturing and shaping collective futures. It examines how photographs can predict and influence societal trends, and how they can inspire hope and optimism for the future. Through powerful images and thought-provoking essays, the chapter explores the ways in which photography can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world.

In conclusion, Civilization: A Visual Exploration of Contemporary Photography is a groundbreaking publication that offers a unique perspective on the way. Through its captivating imagery, thought-provoking essays, and insightful commentary, the book explores the fascinating relationship between contemporary photography and the way we live today. It serves as a testament to the power of photography to capture and communicate the collective experiences, identities, and futures of humanity, and to inspire a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world around us.

Weight: 2378g
Dimension: 299 x 249 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780500021705