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Sub-Spaced.com > Art > MA MMID |
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Michael
Punt Protocol |
Darren Stevens |
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Friday 14th
February 2003 |
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The seminar
started off with a brief explanation to the concept of reduction of difference
following on from the previous seminar (7-2-03)
Structuralism
The system of
signification is based on binary oppositions (presence and absence, nature and
culture) of absolute difference splitting the world which makes it difficult to
see the world as a whole.
So in
signification in order to construct the world to be a whole again, we actually
rebuild what we have cut up through language and the way that we do that is
through a basic reduction of the difference. If smaller differences can work
together Ð shirt and trousers Ð then it is argued that larger differences can
also work together.
Analysis of
narratives (stories, games etc) can be attained through this method, seeing the
narratives through smaller difference reconciling larger differences Ð nature
and culture.
we think of
ourselves as individual consciousnesses and yet we have to agree to a collective
consciousness to create signification, individuality is a product of collective
consciousness so how can you be an individual and a collective at the same
time.
We live
with contradictions in language Ð binary oppositions.
we offset
smaller difference which lead to reconcile larger differences Ð shirt and
trousers offset a larger difference in torso and legs etc.
raw Ð
cooked (larger difference)
fermented Ð
fresh (smaller difference)
Why do we
ware two part clothing, why do we store clothing in different means.
The ÔPoloÕ
Ð the presence and absence at the same time Ð a reconciliation of large
differences. Most objects are designed to reconcile small differences.
In western
films, if the Indian goes to church, it is a smaller difference that helps to
reconcile the larger difference between the Indian culture and the American
culture.
Mike
illustrated through the film ÔSunset BoulevardÕ, triad oppositions as opposed
to binary oppositions.
Presentations
Following
the brief review on Structuralism, there followed the presentation by Darren
and Maka, on their current subjects of research.