The Switch: An Off and On History of Digital Humans

The development of binary switching has transformed everyday life and changed the shape of human agency, from the telegraph to the touchscreen. Jason Puskar's book, "The Switch," offers a cultural and political analysis of how reducing human action to binary alternatives has reshaped modern society. He charts the rapid shift from analog to digital across a range of devices and shows how the switch to switching led to new forms of action and thought.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 21 November 2023
Publisher: University of Minnesota Press

The evolution of binary switching has had a profound impact on everyday life and reshaped the very nature of human agency. From the humble telegraph to the sophisticated touchscreen, this technology has revolutionized the way we interact with the world around us.

In his book, "The Switch," Jason Puskar explores the rise of binary switching and its widespread adoption since the mid-nineteenth century. He argues that pushing a button or flipping a switch has become an everyday human activity, with no activity as common today as turning something on or off.

The Switch goes beyond a mere technical history, delving into the cultural and political implications of reducing human action to binary alternatives. Puskar charts the transition from analog to digital technology across various devices, from keyboards to cameras, and demonstrates how nineteenth-century techniques continue to influence our pervasive digital technologies.

Through his innovative analysis, Puskar shows how binary inputs have altered human agency by making choices instantaneous, effort minimal, and effects more far-reaching than ever before. He explores how the switch to switching has led to new forms of action and thought in fields such as musical performance, finger counting, machine writing, voting methods, and immersive play.

However, the impact of binary switching is not without its challenges. Puskar argues that it fosters forms of individualism that, while empowering for many, also preserve a legacy of inequality and even domination. He raises important questions about the role of technology in shaping our society and the ethical implications of reducing human agency to binary choices.

In conclusion, the development of binary switching has had a profound impact on everyday life and changed the shape of human agency. "The Switch" offers a thought-provoking analysis of this technology's evolution and its implications for our society. By examining the rapid growth of binary switching since the mid-nineteenth century, Puskar provides a valuable perspective on the role of technology in shaping our world and the choices we make in our daily lives.

Weight: 680g
Dimension: 229 x 178 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781517915407