For Some reason, while reading chapter 4 (Virtuality and the Bit Republic, this image popped into my head!
Possibly because I was in an art program all last year, but nonetheless, I thought thought it would be appropriate, let me know what you think.
("this is not a pipe" by rene magritte)
First off, I have to say that I am a huge fan of science fiction. That said, I absolutely love "The Library of Babel". It filled my head with wonderfully juicy images of bookcases that go on forever, in all directions.
First off, I have to say that I am a huge fan of science fiction. That said, I absolutely love "The Library of Babel". It filled my head with wonderfully juicy images of bookcases that go on forever, in all directions. There are dim lit corridors from one hexagon of the universe to the next. At first the idea is exciting, your whole life to ponder over an infinite amount of knowledge, but as Borges's librarian explains, this initial excitement is followed by dread. Once you realize that in containing all knowledge, the library also contains all false knowledge as well.
This is very much like the internet. (Excuse my sudden jump in topics!) When my high school first got online, it was so exciting, the possibilities were endless. Anything I wanted to know about, at the touch of a button. I could even chat with anyone, anywhere, so even if the information I sought was not in print, surely there would be a person to reveal it to me! Of course I came to realize that in giving all people access, this meant giving all those peoples individual beliefs, logical or not, all peoples ignorance’s, all lies, along with any truths. And, unfortunately, it is becoming increasingly difficult to tell the difference.
That is what "The Library of Babel" made me think of...
As for the Library Position Paper No. 1, I found this one a bit harder for me to read. I am in awe of people who speak and write that eloquently. I was very much interested in his explanation of a generic library. Man's knowledge, folly and wisdom in what ever form put down. He says the "generic" library eliminates all physical boundaries. This is very much so the internet of today, growing every day including more and more of man's knowledge, folly and wisdom.
The class is up and running. My head is swimming with information. Maybe too much, but that is what I am here for. So bring it on, lets get our money's worth! (or is that monies, or moneys...) I am doing great so far...