Description
Explore the profound insights of 'The Extended Self' by Chris Abel, a groundbreaking book delving into architecture, cultural evolution, and sustainability. In this influential study, Abel argues that while advancements in sustainable development and design are evident, a significant resistance to evolving personal and social identities—shaped by our technology-dependent and energy-intensive culture—poses challenges to mitigating climate change. This compelling narrative traces the coevolution of Homo sapiens and technology, from primitive tool use to the sprawling, motorized cities that are reshaping our planet.
Abel introduces the innovative concept of the 'technical meme,' which serves as a cornerstone in understanding our cognitive and technical embodiment. This framework of the 'extended self' includes not only psychological and social dimensions but also material and spatial considerations—highlighting how we interact with the world around us. Drawing upon diverse fields such as philosophy, psychology, and neuroscience, 'The Extended Self' provides a fresh perspective for readers interested in environmental and cultural studies. Whether you are an academic or an engaged citizen, this book will enrich your understanding of the interconnectedness of identity, technology, and our environmental challenges.
Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled. Condition: BRAND NEW. ISBN: 9780719096129. Year: 2014. Publisher: Manchester University Press.
Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780719096129
Year: 2014
Publisher: Manchester University Press
Description:
In his wide-ranging study of architecture and cultural evolution, Chris Abel argues that, despite progress in sustainable development and design, resistance to changing personal and social identities shaped by a technology-based and energy-hungry culture is impeding efforts to avert drastic climate change. The book traces the roots of that culture to the coevolution of Homo sapiens and technology, from the first use of tools as artificial extensions to the human body, to the motorized cities spreading around the world, whose uncontrolled effects are changing the planet itself.
Advancing a new concept of the meme, called the 'technical meme,' as the primary agent of cognitive extension and technical embodiment, Abel proposes a theory of the 'extended self' encompassing material and spatial as well as psychological and social elements. Drawing upon research from philosophy, psychology and the neurosciences, the book presents a new approach to environmental and cultural studies that will appeal to a broad readership searching for insights into the origins of the crisis. -- .
Abel introduces the innovative concept of the 'technical meme,' which serves as a cornerstone in understanding our cognitive and technical embodiment. This framework of the 'extended self' includes not only psychological and social dimensions but also material and spatial considerations—highlighting how we interact with the world around us. Drawing upon diverse fields such as philosophy, psychology, and neuroscience, 'The Extended Self' provides a fresh perspective for readers interested in environmental and cultural studies. Whether you are an academic or an engaged citizen, this book will enrich your understanding of the interconnectedness of identity, technology, and our environmental challenges.
Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled. Condition: BRAND NEW. ISBN: 9780719096129. Year: 2014. Publisher: Manchester University Press.
Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780719096129
Year: 2014
Publisher: Manchester University Press
Description:
In his wide-ranging study of architecture and cultural evolution, Chris Abel argues that, despite progress in sustainable development and design, resistance to changing personal and social identities shaped by a technology-based and energy-hungry culture is impeding efforts to avert drastic climate change. The book traces the roots of that culture to the coevolution of Homo sapiens and technology, from the first use of tools as artificial extensions to the human body, to the motorized cities spreading around the world, whose uncontrolled effects are changing the planet itself.
Advancing a new concept of the meme, called the 'technical meme,' as the primary agent of cognitive extension and technical embodiment, Abel proposes a theory of the 'extended self' encompassing material and spatial as well as psychological and social elements. Drawing upon research from philosophy, psychology and the neurosciences, the book presents a new approach to environmental and cultural studies that will appeal to a broad readership searching for insights into the origins of the crisis. -- .