Coding and Representation from the Nineteenth Century to the Present: Scrambled Messages

This collection explores the trends and cultures connected to electrical telegraphy and recent digital communications, investigating how society, politics, literature, and art are imbricated with changing communications technologies from the mid-nineteenth century to the present. It considers control, imperialism, capital, utopianism, and hope, grappling with how human connections and messages are shaped by communications infrastructures.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 11 May 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This collection, which emerges from the research project Scrambled Messages: The Telegraphic Imaginary 1866–1900, delves into the trends and cultures associated with electrical telegraphy and recent digital communications. Conducted in the context of the 1866 transatlantic telegraph, the project aimed to investigate cultural phenomena related to the era's communication technologies. The collection explores the intricate relationships between society, politics, literature, and art as they evolve alongside changing communications technologies, spanning from the mid-nineteenth century to the present. Contributors examine a range of themes, including control, imperialism, capital, utopianism, and hope, as they grapple with the profound impact of communications infrastructures on human connections and the messages they convey.

The collection offers a multi-faceted perspective on the evolving dynamics between technology, society, and culture. It sheds light on the ways in which communication technologies have shaped the development of societies, influenced political ideologies, and influenced artistic expressions. By examining the interplay between these factors, the collection provides valuable insights into the complex and ever-changing nature of human communication and its implications for the future.

One of the key themes explored in the collection is the concept of control. Contributors examine how communication technologies have been used to exercise control over individuals, communities, and societies. They discuss the ways in which governments, corporations, and other institutions have leveraged telegraphy and digital communication to monitor, surveil, and manipulate public opinion. They also explore the ways in which individuals have resisted and challenged these forms of control, using alternative communication channels and forms of activism to assert their autonomy and voice their concerns.

Another theme explored in the collection is imperialism. Contributors examine how communication technologies have been used to facilitate the expansion of imperial power and the establishment of colonial empires. They discuss the ways in which telegraphy and digital communication have enabled the rapid transmission of information, allowing for the coordination of military operations and the management of distant territories. They also explore the ways in which these technologies have contributed to the exploitation and oppression of marginalized communities and the perpetuation of cultural imperialism.

Capital is another theme explored in the collection. Contributors examine how communication technologies have been used to shape the economic landscape and promote capitalist ideals. They discuss the ways in which telegraphy and digital communication have facilitated the growth of global markets, enabled the rapid transmission of financial information, and facilitated the expansion of corporate power. They also explore the ways in which these technologies have created new forms of inequality and exploitation, as well as the challenges posed by the increasing concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few.

Utopianism and hope are two other themes explored in the collection. Contributors examine how communication technologies have been used to promote utopian ideals and visions of a better future. They discuss the ways in which telegraphy and digital communication have enabled the spread of knowledge, ideas, and cultural practices across borders, promoting social connectivity and cultural exchange. They also explore the ways in which these technologies have been used to challenge dominant power structures and promote social justice and equality.

Despite the many positive aspects of communication technologies, the collection also raises important concerns about their impact on human connections and the broader social and cultural landscape. Contributors examine the ways in which communication technologies have eroded trust, promoted isolation and loneliness, and contributed to the spread of misinformation and propaganda. They also explore the ways in which these technologies have been used to perpetuate existing power structures and maintain social hierarch

In conclusion, this collection offers a comprehensive exploration of the trends and cultures associated with electrical telegraphy and recent digital communications. It provides valuable insights into the complex and multifaceted relationships between technology, society, and culture, and highlights the ways in which these relationships are shaped by changing communications technologies. By examining the themes of control, imperialism, capital, utopianism, and hope, the collection sheds light on the profound impact of communication infrastructures on human connections and the messages they convey. As we continue to navigate the rapidly evolving world of communication, it is essential to consider the ethical and social implications of our choices and actions in this space.

Weight: 458g
Dimension: 157 x 235 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367769673