Manovich talks about how technology has impacted both work and leisure activities of the information society. The socialist within me couldn't resist thinking of how this contributes to class divisions. What do people who can't afford computers do? Most public libraries allow anyone with a library card to use a computer for free, but there are limitations to this. For example, I wouldn't want to look at porn or do my online banking on a public computer. Also, the library in my area only allows people to use a computer for 30 minutes at a time (if there's a line). Furthermore, so many activities I do on the computer involve reading. It would be difficult to use a search engine without being able to spell (although google does have a built-in spell check...).
So, my first question is this: Does technology help to separate rich people from poor people? In other words, are rich people getting richer and poor people getting poorer, because of the internet (and other technology)? Or, has this division always been there... because even before computers, poorer people didn't have access to the same kinds of entertainment as richer people.
My second question is this: Is the internet still "a filter for all culture" for people who don't own a computer? I mean, technology does impact advertising (and anyone can see a billboard)... but how does the interface affect society in the real world (meatspace?)?
wow. long post. sorry about that.
