Algorithm & the Web (Part 3)

“Cryptophilia, Semiotics, Politics (and an Anthropology of Class and Identity)”

3 of 3 in short course: ALGORITHM & THE WEB: An Anthropology of Social Movements for the 21st Century, by Erica Lagalisse

Algorithm & the Web is a three part series exploring the relationship of culture and technology since 2000. The course studies how activists have used the Internet over time, and analyzes how we shift between the algorithm vs. network as mental models. We see how thinking with geometry creates real world effects, influencing social movement debates around class vs. identity, spectrums and binaries, intersectionality, and technology itself. Algorithm & the Web teaches an anthropology of social movements in the twilight of the 20 th century, inviting intergenerational exchange during an era when technology changes faster than most can adapt. Long live the library.

Part 3: Cryptophilia, Semiotics, Politics (and an Anthropology of Class and Identity)

Today a new techno-utopian right imagines social justice will occur through acts of “code”—whether Bitcoin or “biohacking”. Yet while the right seeks to create effects sight unseen, activists on the left continue to seek recognition. We are ready (and motivated) to approach the class vs. identity problem in a novel way. We explore a proposal for an escape room, method and museum called The Waiting Room: A 20th Century Experience. Includes installation if conditions permit.

Doors open at 18:30h (for book table, installation) Mix of Lecture & Discussion 19h-21h (+/- 30min) Break & Open Discussion (≈ 21h-22h) No photography, audio or video recording allowed. Food & drink welcome (please be discreet).

This is a course developed to be attended in order. Drop in participation in both lectures and discussions is welcome, yet please work to honour the cumulative discussion of repeat attendees.

Supported by Scrappy Capy Distro, and funded in part by the Canada Council of the Arts.