VIII of X. Sense and Consequence - the Atom, the Body, the Brain, and the Galaxy: Hyphenation Imagination Realized
This entry was posted on 3/4/2008 9:33 AM and is filed under uncategorized.
2 March 2008
VIII of X. Sense and Consequence - the Atom, the Body, the Brain, and the Galaxy: Hyphenation Imagination Realized
In ever more amazing advancements in the atomic sciences, IBM scientists announced they are now able to measure the force required to push an atom (Kenneth Chang, "Scientists Measure What It Takes to Push a Single Atom," The New York Times, 22 February 2008). With this accomplishment, we will be better able to determine the parameters and possibilites of constructing structures and electronic components from individual atoms.
For critical data theft detection, a Princeton University computer research group found that by chilling computer chips with condensed air, they could freeze data in place. By so doing, they found how individuals can extract information from a frozen chip, even after a computer has been powered off (John Markoff, "A Method for Critical Data Theft," The New York Times, 22 February 2008).
From the atom to the human body, the art sphere is taking on 'presence', the new reality-virtuality, and the postmodern move away from duality in recognition of the blur (ahem, hyphenation). Ocular proof of this move is in the new show at the NY MoMA, aptly titled, "Design and the Elastic Mind" (Nicolai Ourousoff, "The Soul in the New Machines," The New York Times, 22 February 2008). From idea to motion-capture video technology to functional object, the human body is incorporated as a fluid, elastic chain in a global community network.
If only the doxa of the art world could influence the general doxa...
From body to brain, Don Goewey wants to help you re-wire your brain to "facilitate 'peak performance' by reducing stress endemic to the workplace" (Chris Colin, "Stressed at work? Re-wire your brain!" San Francisco Chronicle, 19 February 2008). Through a methodology of guided imagery to re-wire the brain's processing of stressful situations, Goewey aims to bring the individual from fear to peace. His method is called "ProAttitude" and incorporates his studies in neurology, cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology, humanistic psychology, and neuroplasticity to effect emotional and attitudinal shifts
From brain back to the greater body - the galaxial body - astronomers recently reported on the possibilities of solar system analogues in their search for habitable (human-friendly) planets (Dennis Overbye, "Smaller Version of the Solar System Is Discovered," The New York Times, 15 February 2008). In effect, they are searching for realities not yet discovered...and this, this is belief in potentiality...
From the atom to the body to the brain to the galaxial bodies yet to be discovered, the common denominator is their effective potentiality and a creative imagination unceasingly materializing, realizing, and existing. The doxa of the art world, cognitive behavioral positive psychologists, astronomers, and nanotechnologists/atomic scientists are taking on the new virtuality-reality/reality-virtuality that is our presence.
It is about time the general doxa take note and follow suit...
