Dorsality

In Dorsality, David Wills reexamines the interplay of humanity and technology, urging a reconsideration of their interconnectedness and the implications of our perceptions.

In Dorsality, David Wills presents a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between humanity and technology. He challenges the traditional view that sees humans as separate from the technological world they create. Instead, Wills proposes an intricate connection between nature and machine, suggesting that this relationship begins with a 'dorsal turn'—a shift that occurs beyond our immediate perception. This concept invites readers to reconsider their understanding of both human existence and technological development.

Wills employs insightful readings of philosophical giants such as Heidegger, Lévinas, Derrida, and Sade to delve into the complexities of human identity. He rescues Heidegger’s insights from simplistic interpretations of technology, while examining the nuances of interpersonal relationships and the politics of friendship and sexuality. Furthermore, he analyzes literary rewritings of classical texts by Joyce and Broch and reflects on how figures like Freud and Rimbaud illustrate the rhetoric surrounding nationalism and identity. Through these discussions, Wills reveals how our perceptions of the human experience are intertwined with broader socio-political themes.

Ultimately, Dorsality posits that our focus on forward motion has led us to overlook crucial aspects of our existence that lie behind our backs. This oversight has significant implications for environmental, political, sexual, and ethical issues, urging readers to consider what remains unseen in their interactions with technology and the world around them.