Symbolic meaning of technology

I have read one of the chapters of the book, “Media, Modernity, and Technology: The Geography of the New”.  That chapter is mainly talking about the symbolic function of the technology. Therefore, in this blog, I would like to focus on discussing the symbolic perspective of the technology.

Usually, people mainly focus on the rational function of technology, such as using mobile phone to talk with other, using computer for doing homework. In the book, author used computer as one of the example to illustrate that there are symbolic meaning of technology. Computer is a really common nowadays. However, in the past, computers were still rather new and uncommon. Computers have been sold domestically as the key technology of access to knowledge.  It symbolized educated, civilized, and intelligent. It doesn't only imply knowledge, but also implies modern and ahead of others, because technology is something expensive and complicated at that time. It brings one more meaning to it. 

From my point of views, smart phones also may symbolize particular kind of cultural identity of the owner. Smart phone is an icon of the new. People who own a phone means he or she is in the trend of the generation.

Besides, a mobile phone is also a tool to reflect particular styles. The color, design, materials of the phone reflects the owners’ style and character. Therefore, people started to pay attention to the outlook of the phone than the function of it. Some people may have decorative stickers on their mobile phones or order a beautiful phone case to match their phone. By doing so, they can distinguish themselves from the others or make the phone more unique. The similar situation also emerges in Hong Kong. Hong Kong youngsters seem to be more emphasis on the style reflection function of phone. For girls, part of them may stick some sparkling elements on the smart phone cases. Not only can they attract people’s attention including strangers and friends, but they can also gain recognition within certain social circles.

In addition, a phone is a powerful symbol of the owner’s status. For instance, it is easy to distinguish one’s financial ability to see he is using iphone or Nokia phone. So, some people will sacrifice themselves financial burden to buy an expensive phone in order to hide its financial status.

In conclusion, modern technology not only have its real function, but sometime it also has been attached some symbolic meaning.

References:

David Morley. (2007) “Magical Technologies. The New, the Shiny, and the Symbolic.” In: Media, Modernity, and Technology: The Geography of the New.