From Printing to Streaming

This book examines the evolution of cultural capitalism from print to digital, highlighting the tensions between creativity and commodification in the modern age.

In From Printing to Streaming, the author delves into the profound effects of digital technologies on the framework of cultural capitalism. While traditional economics often views cultural production as merely another avenue for wealth generation, this book challenges that notion by examining the inherent tensions between capital and creative expression. Drawing on Karl Marx's insights, the narrative highlights the historical struggle of the arts against the constraints of capital accumulation, particularly in the context of the evolving mass media landscape.

The text meticulously traces the evolution of cultural capitalism from the print era to the digital age, analyzing how various forms of media—such as printing, photography, sound recording, and film—have transitioned into commodities. Each medium is scrutinized for its unique characteristics and the ways in which digital technology has transformed them into something that can be manipulated and commodified through computer code. This shift not only alters the nature of cultural production but also impacts how art is consumed in a rapidly changing digital environment.

Through a radical lens, From Printing to Streaming provides a comprehensive assessment of the commodification of artistic creation. It explores the ongoing struggle to harness the full potential of creativity in the digital age, illuminating the challenges and opportunities that arise as art becomes increasingly intertwined with technology. This analysis is crucial for understanding the future of cultural production and the role of digital media in shaping artistic expression.