Essay explores Marshall McLuhan's media theories, arguing the virtual world is an extension of the human brain while the real world increasingly extends from the virtual. It cites historical tech evolution and modern examples like social media influencing events. The piece predicts deeper merging of physical and digital realms.
Key Points
- 1.Media as extensions of human faculties (e.g., computers extend brain, social media dopamine).
- 2.Virtual world evolution from archives to video games and daily apps.
- 3.Real-world impacts via social media: Arab Spring, GameStop, George Floyd protests.
Impact Analysis
Philosophers and AI thinkers benefit by reframing tech as human extensions for better future predictions. It matters for understanding social media's power to shape reality, potentially guiding ethical tech development. Could influence policy on digital influence and disinformation.