Chapter 2: The Media as Epistemology In this chapter, The Media as Epistemology, Postman explain the role of media as a means of understanding the world. He first reminds us that proverbs and sayings were not just occasional devices in oral cultures, as Walter Ong points out, “They are incessant. They form the substance of … Read more
Chapter 1: The Medium is the Message The more we use symbols, the more our physical reality diminishes. Instead of dealing with things directly, man has entered into a state of constant conversation with himself. He is so enveloped in linguistic forms, artistic images, and mythical symbols that he cannot see or know anything without … Read more
“You see, Dad, Professor McLuhan says the environment that man creates becomes his medium for defining his role in it. The invention of type created linear, or sequential thought, separating thought from action. Now, with TV and folk singing, thought and action are closer and social involvement is greater. We again live in a village. … Read more
My Left Foot is a movie based on a true story and was recommended by Jordan Peterson. Christy Brown was an Irish writer with cerebral palsy, he was expertly played by Daniel Day Lewis in an award-winning performance. His life was tough, he had no control of any of his limbs, except for his left … Read more
Victory is gained not by the number killed but by the number frightened. Arab proverb Terrorists are born out of feelings of weakness and despair, and a conviction that the cause they stand for is worth the damage. A world where the powerful seem large and invulnerable, this kind of strategy becomes more appealing, in … Read more
It is not an enemy who taunts me–then I could bear it; it is not an adversary who deals insolently with me–then I could hide from him. But it is you, my equal, my companion, my familiar friend……. My companion stretched out his hand against his friends, he violated his covenant. His speech was smoother … Read more
War can only be fought against an enemy who exposes himself. Infilitrate into your opponents’ ranks to accumulate valuable information – their weaknesses and schemes. Hide your hostile intentions, to take what you want, you cannot fight those who have it, but you must join them – either slowly make it your own or wait … Read more
Communication Strategies Communication is a type of war. You can trick some people by disguising your great ideas in ordinary form. Others, who are more resistant and dull need extreme language that is new. Avoid static language, don’t be preachy and overly personal. Your words should spark action, not passive contemplation. Alfred Hitchcock Hitchcock’s style … Read more
Never seem to ambitious, you will stir up resentment. Gradually take small bites, and before anyone knows it, you will have acquired an empire. It may seem that people are aggressive, given our history of never-ending conflict and war. But this is not true. Aggression is the exception to the norm; most people are conservative … Read more