Intelligence Squared

The History of Information, with Chris Haughton

18 snips
Oct 14, 2024
Chris Haughton, a renowned designer and children's book author, joins technology researcher Carl Miller to delve into the evolution of information. They explore how visual communication has transformed throughout history, highlighting its role in a digital age. Haughton shares insights from his book, discussing the societal impacts of information technology from the printing press to modern communication. The conversation also touches on the historical roots of propaganda and its influence on consumer culture, revealing the complexities of documenting information's evolution.
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ANECDOTE

Oral Culture Techniques

  • Oral cultures use rhythm, rhyme, repetition, and redundancy to enhance memorability.
  • Myths, with their fantastical elements, exemplify this for lasting impact.
ANECDOTE

Socrates' Skepticism

  • Socrates, skeptical of writing, feared it would diminish memory.
  • Plato and Aristotle later embraced writing, demonstrating its eventual acceptance.
ANECDOTE

Luther's Viral Theses

  • Martin Luther's 95 Theses spread rapidly across Europe due to printing, demonstrating its power.
  • This viral spread challenged the Church's authority and fueled the Reformation.
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