McLuhan’s
idea of “the medium is a message” is about a medium can change the world
including human behavior and social life. It is also an extension of nervous
system: the sense ratio of people in a new medium increases which is more
important than the content or textual matter carried.
Each
medium created its own virtual environment with different human behaviors
formed.
Like TV,
it is relatively is a cold medium with low definition because of the TV advertisements
and more participation of senses (visual and audio) required. Families used to
like to sit around and watch it. Before the TV was invented, people like to
read books which is more like an individual activity. Thus, human behavior and
social life changed.
Apply
McLuhan’s idea to today’s life, online video platform like vimeo and youtube
would be another great example of new medium. Technology develops fast, the use
of mobile apps becomes popular that people can watch online videos anytime and
anything they like. People can barely leave their phone without a sight for
more than a few seconds even if we are having dinner.
This
medium changed users’ behavior, but also the creators’. People can easily
record videos with their phones and upload to such platforms.
The
other 2 theories people usually argue with would be brought up: Technological
Determinism and Social Shaping of Technology.
Technological
Determinism: The technological base affects the social superstructure.
Social
Shaping of Technology: Technology is a result of social forces and needs.
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Dear Angel, the discussion is pretty nice. To pick on you, The idea / theory of "The medium is the message" falls into the category of technological determinism. Examples cited is proper. Your understanding of the theories covered in class is demonstrated.
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