Figure: Concept and Method

This open-access book explores the use of figures,figuring,and configuration to understand complex contemporary problems. Figures include images,numbers,diagrams,data,and more,and have transformed disciplines and fields of study. Contributors reflect on the history of figures and their methods of figuring and configuring across social science,medicine,art,literature,media,politics,philosophy,history,anthropology,and science and technology studies. Readers will encounter figures such as Je Suis Charlie,#MeToo,social media personae,gardeners,asthmatic children,systems configuration management,and cloud computing,demonstrating the methodological utility and contemporary relevance of thinking with figures.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 283 pages
Publication date: 24 August 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This open-access book explores the multifaceted role of figures, figuration, and configuration in understanding complex and contemporary problems. Figures encompass a wide range of visual representations, including images, numbers, diagrams, data, and datasets, as well as turns of phrase and symbolic representations. Contributors delve into the historical evolution of figures, examining how they have shaped disciplines and fields of study. They also highlight the integral role of figuration and configuration in practices of description, computation, creation, criticism, and political action. By traversing various fields such as social science, medicine, art, literature, media, politics, philosophy, history, anthropology, and science and technology studies, the book showcases the diverse applications of figures. Readers will encounter a diverse array of figures, including iconic symbols like "Je Suis Charlie," the #MeToo movement, social media personae, gardeners, asthmatic children, systems configuration management, and cloud computing. These examples illustrate the methodological utility and contemporary relevance of thinking with figures. This book serves as a critical guide to the world of figures, offering insights into their historical development, theoretical foundations, and practical applications. It also serves as a creative invitation to engage with figures and explore their potential for shaping our understanding of the world.

Weight: 394g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811924781
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022