Theory & Philosophy

The Medium is the Message | Marshall McLuhan | Keyword

6 snips
Feb 3, 2021
Explore Marshall McLuhan's provocative idea that 'the medium is the message' and how it reshapes our understanding of communication. Discover the historical impact of various communication mediums, from ancient Babylon to modern society. Delve into the complex relationship between messages and their mediums, illustrated by biblical examples and contemporary social media. This thought-provoking discussion reveals how examining the medium can unlock deeper insights than focusing solely on the message.
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ANECDOTE

Babylon vs Egypt Media Impact

  • Harold Innes illustrates civilization growth with the examples of Babylon and Egypt.
  • Babylon's stone tablets limited expansion, while Egypt's papyrus allowed rapid geographical growth.
INSIGHT

Civilization Media Bias Balance

  • Civilizations must balance a "time bias" media that endures and a "space bias" media that facilitates expansion.
  • Stone tablets indicate time bias; papyrus indicates space bias.
INSIGHT

Media Shapes Human Interaction

  • Marshall McLuhan argues media themselves shape user behavior beyond content.
  • Different communication forms, like letter writing versus texting, create different social dynamics and anxieties.
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