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Mike Watson, "The Memeing of Mark Fisher: How the Frankfurt School Foresaw Capitalist Realism and What to Do about It" (Zero Books, 2021)
New Books in Politics and Polemics
Redefining Labor in the Digital Age
The relationship between digital self-presentation, such as Instagram selfies, and the concept of labor has evolved, revealing a paradox where the effort put into appearing spontaneous and nonchalant is significant. This phenomenon reflects a departure from traditional Marxist labor definitions, indicating a misalignment with contemporary reality. The digital age, particularly through platforms like Instagram, allows individuals to engage in a form of labor that appears effortless, yet requires extensive preparation and effort. This dynamic challenges old notions of work and prompts a reevaluation of how we view and participate in creative expressions online. The comparison to Walter Benjamin's concept of the flâneur suggests that modern digital creators can be seen as contemporary equivalents, engaging with media in a politically charged manner that opens up discussions about authenticity and artistic value in the age of mechanical reproduction.
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