Hermitix
The Work of Friedrich Kittler with Geoffrey Winthrop-Young
Sep 25, 2024
Geoffrey Winthrop-Young, a researcher focusing on media theory and posthumanism, dives deep into Friedrich Kittler's influential ideas. He shares personal anecdotes that highlight Kittler's unique lectures and character. The conversation explores the complex relationship between technology, language, and human values, particularly how warfare drives media evolution. Winthrop-Young connects philosophical giants like Nietzsche and Foucault to Kittler’s thought, revealing how media shapes perception and reality in our digital age.
01:05:22
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Quick takeaways
- Kittler's media theory asserts that communication and cultural practices are fundamentally transformed by the evolution of technology, reflecting complex power dynamics.
- Geoffrey Winthrop-Young's personal journey with Kittler illustrates the challenging landscape of academic mentorship and the impact of intellectual estrangement.
Deep dives
Overview of Friedrich Kittler's Influence
Friedrich Kittler was a prominent figure in media theory and literary scholarship, known for his intricate analyses of how media and technology shape discourse and cultural practices. His work is heavily influenced by German philosophers, particularly Nietzsche and Heidegger, as well as post-structuralists like Foucault and Lacan. Kittler's approach posits that the evolution of media—ranging from typewriters to digital technology—transform how societies communicate and conceptualize knowledge. His theories suggest that understanding the intersection of media and language is key to deciphering cultural narratives and power dynamics throughout history.
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