Blog Post #4 - Dante Testani
The idea of articulations within media ecologies is one important topic we investigated. The relationships between media messages, their technological mediums, and the people involved in their production, distribution, and consumption can be examined through the lenses provided by these articulations. Additionally, they clarified how media production functions as a vehicle for the accumulation of power and wealth as well as a channel for emotional and embodied experiences and communication.
The Protestant Reformation was sparked by Martin Luther's 95 Theses, which he wrote in the sixteenth century and which drastically altered the political and religious climate of Europe. By looking at the first articulation, we can observe how the Gutenberg printing press's technological innovations helped spread Luther's message criticizing the practices of the Catholic Church through print. Luther used this medium to reach a large audience and act as a change agent, igniting controversy and debate.
In the digital era, the "OH LAWD HE COMIN" cat meme is what you see, gaining widespread attention on the internet in 2018 and 2019. Here, the second articulation becomes relevant as we see how memes function as channels for emotions and the creation of culture in addition to being communication tools. People take part in the production, sharing, and consumption of these memes via social media platforms, participating in a shared cultural phenomenon that cuts across national boundaries.
Hi Dante, your post provides a well done analysis of how media articulations shape the second articulation of communication affect and accumulation. I enjoyed how you discussed how the printing press helped spread the message of Luther and its connection to current day social media. Despite the way in which we share media changing, the communication remains the same in allowing for people to articulate a mode of affect as well as gain an understanding of the media at hand through the act of sharing the media.
ReplyDeleteHi Kaileigh,
DeleteThanks for your comment.
Hey everyone, for this blog post I am focusing on the second articulation in regard to Martin Luthers 95 thesis and the “OH LAWD HE COMIN” internet cat meme. Luther’s historical event aligns with the three parts of media modes of production. Luthers ideas were displayed for everyone to see when he nailed his thesis to the door. His ideas were then further distributed and reached a larger audience. This process was a symbolic act of communicaiton at the time and challenged the authority of the Catholic church. Additionally, Luther's thesis carried emotional significance. Luther challenged established religious practices and beliefs at the time, provoking skepticism. Therefore, the thesis sparked debate and emotional responses among people. In regard to mode of accumulation, Luthers ideas were able to circulate and because of this there were economic implications as it challenged the churchs monopoly and gave Luther the status that he is remembered by.
ReplyDeleteThe example of the internet cat meme also reflects the second articulation. Internet memes are posted constantly throughout the online landscape and in this situation it was Emilie Chang who posted a picture of the cat weight chart. Through her initial post the meme went viral, being distributed amongst a large audience. The meme carries the emotional significance of internet memes, with their participatory and humorous elements that people find relatable and enjoyable. Lastly, Changs post created a connection with users and applies to the way in which ideas are circulated throughout the internet capturing attention for the person who posted it.
My question for the class is, can you think of any other internet instances that led to these media modes of production? Maybe an instance where a viral meme or video resulted in someone gaining power or an emotional connection with viewers.
Hey Dante,
ReplyDeleteYour exploration of articulations within media ecologies sheds light on the intricate relationships between media messages, technological mediums, and the individuals involved in their production, distribution, and consumption. The examples of Martin Luther's 95 Theses and the "OH LAWD HE COMIN" cat meme offer compelling insights into how media production shapes cultural narratives and facilitates the accumulation of power and wealth.
Considering these dynamics, I'm curious how you think advancements in technology, particularly in the digital realm, are reshaping the landscape of media production and consumption, and what implications does this have for society's understanding of power and communication?
Hey Dante,
DeleteYour breakdown gives us a cool way to look at how media, tech, and society all mix it up over time. It's like seeing the behind-the-scenes of how ideas spread and shake things up.
So, take Martin Luther back in the day. Dude drops his 95 Theses, and suddenly, thanks to the Gutenberg printing press, his message goes viral. It's like the original Facebook post but on paper. Luther used this tech to stir the pot, challenging the Church and sparking debates everywhere.
Then fast-forward to our meme-loving internet era. Remember "OH LAWD HE COMIN" cat? That thing blew up online! But it's not just about laughs. Memes are like cultural glue. They bring people together, sharing jokes, feelings, and experiences across the globe.
This shows how media isn't just about what's on the screen or page. It's about how we connect, express ourselves, and even change society. From 16th-century pamphlets to 21st-century memes, it's all part of the same game: influencing hearts, minds, and maybe even the world.