Toy Theory - Technology and Imagination in Play

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

List of contents

Contents
Acknowledgments
Introduction
1   Toy-Being
2   Dolls
3   Toy Soldiers
4   Construction Toys
5   Robots
6   Cinema Toys
7   Conclusion
Notes
Bibliography
Index

About the author

Seth Giddings teaches postdigital culture and creative technologies at Winchester School of Art, University of Southampton. He is the author of Gameworlds: Virtual Media and Children’s Everyday Play, coeditor of The New Media & Technocultures Reader, and a coauthor of New Media: A Critical Introduction.

Product details

• Authors: Seth Giddings, Giddings Seth
• Publisher: The MIT Press
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 15.10.2024
• EAN: 9780262548212
• ISBN: 978-0-262-54821-2
• No. of pages: 286
• Dimensions: 154 mm x 230 mm x 19 mm
• Subjects: Social sciences, law, business > Social sciences (general); Media Studies, SOCIAL SCIENCE / Popular Culture, SOCIAL SCIENCE / Media Studies, Society & culture: general, GAMES & ACTIVITIES / General