Deified: Dissecting the
Post–Spectacle Digital Gaze

Book Design
Generative Design
Extensive Research

D: Ze Feng, Irene Ye

This project examines the internet's role in amplifying the effects of Guy Debord's 'Society of the Spectacle,' where society is manipulated by the pervasive influence of images.

Book Structure

IDEA/CONCEPT:

This research endeavors to dissect the intricate relationship between the spectacle as envisioned by Guy Debord and the transformative influence of the Internet. By delineating the Internet and the spectacle as two initially distinct trajectories, the study meticulously charts their convergence into a singular, intertwined phenomenon.

APPROACH:

My methodological framework is articulated through a tripartite structure:

Part A: Historical Genesis and Evolution - This segment embarks on a historical journey tracing the genesis of the spectacle from Debord's initial proposition of a society dominated by images, through the era of mass production, the rise of television, and culminating in the digital ubiquity ushered in by the Internet. This analysis aims to underscore how the spectacle has seamlessly woven itself into the fabric of society, evolving yet remaining an integral component.

‍Part B: The Digital Paradigm - Focusing on the Internet's trajectory, this part delves into the origins of digital connectivity, from the inception of ARPANET to the pervasive spread of digital technology. It scrutinizes the Internet not just as a technological advancement but as a pivotal force in redefining societal structures and interactions.

‍Part C: The Confluence of Spectacle and Digitality - The culmination of the study, this section synthesizes insights from the preceding analyses to reveal how the digital era has not only intensified the spectacle but also altered its course.

By adopting this structured approach, the research elucidates the transformation from Debord's spectacle to 'Spectacle 2.0,' where the digital realm and the spectacle are no longer parallel entities but have become deeply entangled. This exploration not only sheds light on the historical and philosophical underpinnings of this convergence but also critiques the contemporary manifestations of power and influence in the digital age. Through this lens, the study navigates the complex interplay between theoretical paradigms and digital technology, offering insights into the pervasive effects of images in shaping modern society.