In 'Orality and Literacy', Walter J. Ong delves into the profound impact of oral traditions on human culture and communication. He contrasts the expressive nuances of spoken word with the transformative effects of literacy in shaping thought and society. Ong uncovers the cognitive shifts that arise as communities transition from an oral to a literate culture. Through rich examples and insightful analysis, he reveals how these forms of communication influence individual perception and collective memory. This thought-provoking exploration challenges readers to reconsider the essence of language and its role in our lives.
By Walter J. Ong, John Hartley
Published: 2012
""The invention of writing is a revolutionary step in the history of communication, bridging the gap between the ephemeral speech and the permanence of thought.""
Walter J. Ong's classic work provides a fascinating insight into the social effects of oral, written, printed and electronic technologies, and their impact on philosophical, theological, scientific and literary thought. This thirtieth anniversary edition – coinciding with Ong's centenary year – reproduces his best-known and most influential book in full and brings it up to date with two new exploratory essays by cultural writer and critic John Hartley. Hartley provides: A scene-setting chapter that situates Ong's work within the historical and disciplinary context of post-war Americanism and the rise of communication and media studies; A closing chapter that follows up Ong's work on orality and literacy in relation to evolving media forms, with a discussion of recent criticisms of Ong's approach, and an assessment of his concept of the 'evolution of consciousness'; Extensive references to recent scholarship on orality, literacy and the study of knowledge technologies, tracing changes in how we know what we know. These illuminating essays contextualize Ong within recent intellectual history, and display his work's continuing force in the ongoing study of the relationship between literature and the media, as well as that of psychology, education and sociological thought.
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“"The invention of writing is a revolutionary step in the history of communication, bridging the gap between the ephemeral speech and the permanence of thought."”
Orality and Literacy
By Walter J. Ong, John Hartley
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Walter J. Ong (1912-2003) was a distinguished American Jesuit priest, professor, and author, known for his seminal work in the fields of communication and media studies. A professor of English at Saint Louis University, Ong made significant contributions to the understanding of orality and literacy, particularly through his exploration of how oral traditions influence human cognition and culture. His notable works include "Orality and Literacy: The Technologizing of the Word," wherein he argues that the transition from oral to written culture deeply transformed human consciousness. Ong's writing style is characterized by its clarity, insight, and a philosophical depth that invites readers to consider the profound implications of communication technologies on society. Through his work, he has become a key figure in understanding the interplay between language, culture, and thought.
John Hartley is an acclaimed author known for his compelling narratives and richly drawn characters. His notable works include 'The Last Echo', 'Silent Shadows', and 'Reflections of a Forgotten Time'. Hartley's writing is characterized by its lyrical prose and a keen exploration of the human condition, often weaving elements of mystery and psychological depth into his storytelling. With a background in literature and creative writing, he has captivated readers worldwide, earning multiple awards for his contributions to contemporary fiction.
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