Global Technography - 9781433102936

Drawing on the work of Heidegger, media critic James Carey, and Vedanta philosophy, Kien (communication, California State University) develops a new ethnographic methodology, which he calls global technography, for investigating wireless mobility from a sociological and cultural perspective and "exploring the role of technology in a way consistent with how we actually experience everyday life." Global technography, as the author defines it, involves performance studies, ethnography, actor-network theory, media effects theory, globalization, and identity theory. Vignettes from the author's physical, spiritual, and educational journeys are the vehicle for speculation on technological mobility, ontology, and post-global citizenship, in an ongoing series of epiphanies centered in the author's relationship with his laptop. According to the author, the book offers "an example of how sociotechno researchers, scholars in science and technology studies, philosophers of technology, and qualitative researchers can escape the traditional interactionist approach to technology that treats devices and machinery as dead props." A glossary of terms related to actor-network theory is included. The book is suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses in methodology, communication, and cultural work dealing with globalization and new digital communication media. B&w photos from the author's travels are included. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)