I read the analysis in the Free Press, and found it striking as well. The thought that occurred to me was that McLuhan's premise of the medium of transmission/communication fundamentally driving humans apart can be applied to an earlier age as well. Think of the transition from face to face communication to written communication. Think of using fiat currencies to transact business so the principals never have to see each other as they trade and barter goods. Both of these historic and historical mediums drove individuals into further isolation. What is the one thing in life that we can't control and causes us pain? Other people. What is the one thing that we desperately crave and go crazy without? Other people. Maybe the history of mankind is the desperate struggle for control and protection by building mechanisms to allow us to isolate ourselves from others?
I read the analysis in the Free Press, and found it striking as well. The thought that occurred to me was that McLuhan's premise of the medium of transmission/communication fundamentally driving humans apart can be applied to an earlier age as well. Think of the transition from face to face communication to written communication. Think of using fiat currencies to transact business so the principals never have to see each other as they trade and barter goods. Both of these historic and historical mediums drove individuals into further isolation. What is the one thing in life that we can't control and causes us pain? Other people. What is the one thing that we desperately crave and go crazy without? Other people. Maybe the history of mankind is the desperate struggle for control and protection by building mechanisms to allow us to isolate ourselves from others?
Excellent and thought provoking episode Tara. I’ll go back and watch that YouTube clip.