Cultural Production In A Digital Age

Guest Lecture – 11 October 2007

Abstract: Web 2.0 technologies change how we interact with digital cultural objects. We are no longer merely a consumer; we are also a producer. This is a power shift, and the result is entrenchment on the parts of society that currently hold power.

My Slideshare Link

Clips:

Chris Anderson, editor of Wired Magazine: “professionals produce”

JibJab, This Land

Mona Elchamaa, Censorship by Others, student project

Abuse of Copyright Flagging

Joichi Ito, Limitations of Digital Copyright

Assignment (turn in before leaving class)

We will pick one of these modern, trademarked cultural icons (Barbie, Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, Mickey Mouse) and do a Google search to find parodies or criticisms, both text and multi-media examples. What are they? Is there one theme or many? Do you believe these non-sanctioned works infringe on the intellectual property (idea or image) of the trademark holder? Provide evidence for your answer.

• Mattel Site
• Wikipedia
• Song
• Distortion

Links referenced in presentation:

• ConvertTube
• Creative Commons
• Flicker CC
• Free Art License
• Freeculture Contest Winners (DRM, 2006)
• Google Maps API Blog
• Google Maps Mashups
• GNU public license
• The Wealth of Networks

• WiredPen (my blog)

Sources:

• Lessig, L. (n.d.) Copyright, Cultural Production and Open Content Licensing. Piet Zwart Institute. Retrieved 10 October 2007 from https://pzwart.wdka.hro.nl/mdr/pubsfolder/liangessay/view