Iconomy: Towards a Political Economy of Images

Imagery has become a powerful force in shaping contemporary life, and this book explores the viral imagery of the pandemic, U.S. Presidents Trump and Biden, Black Lives Matter, and the rise of a "black aesthetic" in white artworlds. Smith argues that the study of iconomy does not require a discipline serving nation-states and globalizing capitalism but a deconstructive interdiscipline that contributes to the politics of planetary world-making.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 246 pages
Publication date: 28 November 2023
Publisher: Anthem Press

Iconomy: Towards a Political Economy of Images explores the profound impact of imagery across various aspects of contemporary life. While immersed in public politics and personal imaginations, this imagery operates according to its own logic, potentialities, and limitations. This book delves into the viral imagery associated with the pandemic, U.S. Presidents Trump and Biden, Black Lives Matter, and the emergence of a "black aesthetic" in white artworlds. Coining the term "iconomy" in the years preceding 9/11, Smith argues that its study does not necessitate a discipline solely focused on nation-states and globalizing capitalism but rather a deconstructive interdiscipline that contributes to the politics of planetary world-making.

Introduction:
In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary society, images have emerged as a powerful force that shapes our lives in profound ways. From the political sphere to the realm of personal imagination, imagery plays a crucial role in shaping our understanding of the world and influencing our actions. This book aims to explore the multifaceted nature of imagery and its role in shaping our contemporary world.

The Power of Images:
The book argues that imagery of all kinds has become a definitive force in the shaping of contemporary life. It encompasses a wide range of visual representations, including photographs, videos, advertisements, and social media posts. These images have the ability to convey complex ideas, evoke emotions, and shape public opinion. They can influence political campaigns, shape cultural norms, and even influence individual behavior.

Imagery in Public Politics:
While immersed in public politics, imagery plays a crucial role in shaping public perception and influencing political outcomes. Political campaigns often rely on visual imagery to convey their messages and appeal to voters. Images of candidates, logos, and campaign slogans can create a strong emotional connection with the public and influence their voting decisions.

Private Imaginaries:
However, imagery also operates according to its own logic, potentialities, and limitations. Private imaginaries, which are shaped by individual experiences, cultural backgrounds, and social contexts, play a significant role in shaping our personal beliefs and attitudes. These imaginaries can influence our behavior and decision-making processes, and can be shaped by media, advertising, and other forms of cultural expression.

Viral Imagery:
One particularly interesting aspect of the book is its exploration of viral imagery. Viral imagery refers to images that spread rapidly through social media platforms and have the ability to reach a large audience. These images can be used for both positive and negative purposes, and can have a significant impact on public opinion and political discourse.

Iconopolitics:
The book also delves into the concept of iconopolitics, which refers to the power of images to shape public opinion and political discourse. Iconopolitics involves the use of images to convey messages, create symbols, and establish narratives. It can be seen in the way that political campaigns use images to evoke emotions, promote ideologies, and shape public perception.

The Pandemic and Viral Imagery:
The pandemic has provided a fertile ground for the emergence of viral imagery. Images of medical professionals, patients, and the impact of the virus have been shared widely on social media platforms, and have had a significant impact on public opinion and political discourse. These images have been used to promote public health measures, raise awareness about the virus, and even to criticize government responses.

U.S. Presidents Trump and Biden:
Another important aspect of the book is its exploration of the viral imagery associated with U.S. Presidents Trump and Biden. Images of these leaders have been used to convey their messages, promote their ideologies, and shape public opinion. These images have been both positive and negative, with some images being widely shared and others being criticized for their accuracy or bias.

Black Lives Matter:
Black Lives Matter is another movement that has been heavily influenced by viral imagery. Images of protests, rallies, and the impact of police violence have been shared widely on social media platforms, and have had a significant impact on public opinion and political discourse. These images have been used to promote awareness about racial inequality and to advocate for change.

The Rise of a "Black Aesthetic" in White Artworlds:
The book also explores the emergence of a "black aesthetic" in white artworlds. This aesthetic refers to the use of blackness as a visual motif in art, and has been influenced by the experiences of black artists and activists. This aesthetic has been used to challenge traditional notions of beauty and to promote diversity and inclusivity in the art world.

Deconstructive Interdisciplinarity:
In conclusion, the book argues that the study of imagery requires a deconstructive interdiscipline that contributes to the politics of planetary world-making. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the power of images and the ways in which they shape our lives. By exploring the viral imagery associated with various movements and issues, the book provides a valuable insight into the complex relationship between imagery, power, and politics.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive exploration of the power of imagery in shaping contemporary life. It highlights the importance of understanding the ways in which imagery operates according to its own logic, potentialities, and limitations. By exploring the viral imagery associated with the pandemic, U.S. Presidents, Black Lives Matter, and the rise of a "black aesthetic" in white artworlds, the book provides a valuable insight into the complex relationship between imagery, power, and politics. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the field of visual culture and its impact on our society.

Weight: 382g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839990007