Toy Theory : Technology and Imagination in Play - Seth Giddings

Instant online reading.
Don't wait for delivery!
Go digital and save!

Toy Theory

Technology and Imagination in Play

By: Seth Giddings

Write A Review

Paperback | 5 November 2024

At a Glance

Paperback
286 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
0.1 x 0.1 x 0.1

Paperback

$129.75

or 4 interest-free payments of $32.44 with

or

Ships in 10 to 15 business days

A novel interpretation of the history and theory of technology from the perspective of toys, play, and play objects.

A novel interpretation of the history and theory of technology from the perspective of toys, play, and play objects.

Toy Theory addresses the relationships between toys and technology in two distinct but overlapping ways- first, as underexamined cultural artifacts and behaviors with significant technical attributes and, second, as playful and toylike dimensions of technology at large. Seth Giddings sets out a "toy theory" of technology that emphasizes the speculative, experimental, and noninstrumental in technological paradigms and argues that children's playthings, rather than being the most ephemeral and inconsequential of technical devices, instead offer analytical and anthropological resources for understanding the materiality and imaginaries of technology over time.

After defining toy theory in general and conceptual terms, Giddings examines different types of toys to explore shifting relationships between the microcosmic symbolic or mimetic content, material and technical constitution, and modes of play of toys and toy-related artifacts, on the one hand, and prevailing, macrocosmic, technological paradigms and imaginaries, on the other. Taking a broad historical and genealogical view, Giddings traces contemporary postdigital toy and play culture to precedents from the neolithic through to the Enlightenment to consumer culture from the early nineteenth century to the present day.

Shipping

	Standard Shipping	Express Shipping
Metro postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Regional postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Rural postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95

Orders over $79.00 qualify for free shipping.

How to return your order

At Booktopia, we offer hassle-free returns in accordance with our returns policy. If you wish to return an item, please get in touch with Booktopia Customer Care.

Additional postage charges may be applicable.