Post #2 - Anthony Sigismondo

According to Innis’ analysis of ancient empires and media forms, and from the definitions of time bias and space bias media, I would consider the spreading of the Pontypool virus to be an example of space bias. As we learned, space-bias media favours/affords a more rapid and widespread mode of dissemination. This is similar to the vector of the Pontypool virus, as it is seen quickly spreading throughout the town. That said, there could be an argument made in favour of the virus being, at its core, an example of the concept of time bias, as it has now permeated the English language, thus potentially becoming a long-lasting, time-bias virus in that language or oral culture. 


In addition, radio, telephone, and electronic amplification as media could be considered, in the case of Pontypool, contemporary forms of orality. This is because they act as the transmitters of culture and its messages. The knowledge of the virus and situation is being orally reported via these mediums in order to spread the message and its durability over space/time.

Comments

  1. Alexandra RemmlingFebruary 10, 2023 at 12:57 PM

    Hey Anthony, great post! I agree that the virus in an example of space bias since it is very easily transmissible over vast distances and because it is spread through speech which is not physical. However, I also enjoyed reading your take on that it could be considered time bias if it becomes a long lasting virus within the English language and the community. If it did become embedded permanently then I could see it being an example of a time biased media.

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  2. Quin McLaneFebruary 13, 2023 at 10:47 AM

    Hi Anthony, as stated in my post, I certainly agree that Pontypool created an example of Space bias media due to the speed at which messages were transmitted using light media that allows for easy transmission. I also found your point with regards to time base very interesting and it something I did not think about. The idea that if the English language was to be permanently altered creating a time biased virus in oral culture is something I did not think about. I also agree that these mediums could be considered contemporary forms of orality. You make it very clear that this is made possible by the transmitting of messages from sender to receiver through Oral mediums.

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