The Human Being – Producer or Product of Technology? Technologies, Technique, and Techné in the Digital Age Cover Image

Omul – producător sau produs al tehnologiei? Tehnologii, tehnică, techné în era digitală
The Human Being – Producer or Product of Technology? Technologies, Technique, and Techné in the Digital Age

Author(s): Diana Roman
Subject(s): Fine Arts / Performing Arts, Visual Arts
Published by: Facultatea de Teologie Ortodoxă Alba Iulia
Keywords: digital art; technology; curation; internet art; techné; hardware; software; authenticity; system; Heidegger; Gestell;

Summary/Abstract: This scholarly article explores the intricate relationship between humanity and technology in the contemporary digital era, with a particular focus on the curation of digital artwork. It examines the evolution of digital art, tracing its development from Net Art to its modern forms, highlighting key characteristics such as interactivity, dynamism, continuous transformation, reproducibility, and contextual implications. The text emphasizes the democratization and virtualization of artistic practices while also addressing the challenges posed by artificial intelligence. Furthermore, it critically reflects on the erosion of art’s traditional connection to techné, its replacement by technological supremacy, and the risk of human alienation. Drawing upon the philosophical perspectives of Martin Heidegger and Walter Benjamin, the paper critically assesses the transformation of art in the age of mechanical reproduction, as well as the potential commodification of humanity through technology. The concept of Gestell is explored, suggesting that contemporary technology imposes constraints and an incessant demand for output, effectively reducing individuals to “available resources”. Despite its inherent risks, the internet is acknowledged as a platform for artistic expression and collaborative creation. The author advocates for a Stoic philosophical approach and the pursuit of authenticity in technological engagement as a means to counteract alienation and realize artistic potential.

  • Issue Year: XXIX/2024
  • Issue No: 2
  • Page Range: 243-259
  • Page Count: 17
  • Language: Romanian
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