Stephen - Blog Post #1

In the text, Manovich explains that there are some major differences between old and new media. He attempts to explain these differences with a list of five principles. These principles do not apply to every example of new media, but most. (Basically, they’re not rules, they’re more like guidelines.)

The first of these principles is numerical representation. This principle states that objects of new media are, at least initially, composed of numbers, what we call code. A new media object can be described using numbers or mathematical formulas. They can also be programmed. Any new media object is susceptible and subject to change. Manovich uses the examples of photo and film, which are made up of smaller numerical units (pixels and scenes). I thought of a webpage. What we see is on the screen is actually a long string of numbers, letters, symbols, a kind of formula to produce a webpage. Since it is this way, it can be easily changed and reprogrammed.

The second principle is called modularity. Basically, this principle states that each “independent” object in new media is made up of many, smaller “independent” objects. He uses the example of a webpage, which is populated by images, videos, links, etc. Each of these can exist on their own. Another example would be an audio file, such as an MP3. Although the file is an independent object, it is made up of many different tracks, each track made of different sounds, each sound made by a different string, pedal, stick, or key.

Third is the principle of automation, which is made possible by the first two principles. Because of the numerical representation and the modularity, certain functions can be developed that allow a new media object to act on its own in different ways. Manovich explains that certain photo applications can do auto-corrections or generate certain images. I thought of YouTube, which gathers information from the videos a viewer has watched and the channels he/she is subscribed to and automatically creates a “What to Watch” playlist catered to those interests, requiring no continual effort from the viewer.

The fourth principle is variability. This principle explains the fact that a new media object is not fixed or static; it can be recreated or changed and can either do away with the original or maintain it. One example of this is Microsoft Word, which has been through numerous versions, all basically the same but simultaneously very different. Another example is a video game, which undergoes frequent updates and through different versions. While it is still the same game, features are added and changed. A person can choose to update to the latest version, or they can continue playing on the previous version, allowing for a variety of experiences among users.

Lastly, we see the principle of transcoding. This is basically the transfer of information from a “human language” to a “computer language” or vice versa. This is important because of the fact that it happens both way, and each influences the other. Our culture is constantly evolving, and our media need to follow suit. Likewise, our methods of programming are always improving and updating, and our culture adapts to keep in step.

Manovich seems to feel that this is the most important principle, and it is only made possible by the previous four, and I agree. This principle can be seen occurring all around us, especially within the last few years when so many leaps and bounds have been made in the technological world. Culture and new media develop side-by-side, simultaneously.