In this current moment we’re in, it is tempting to look for solutions perpetually. When reflecting on our fatigue and lack of creativity in online discourse, we might identity problems; for example, the Zoom grid we find ourselves in is symmetrical, where our identities are not.

At this point, there are two avenues to explore: the technological or the humanistic. The technological one might look for new digital means to break that–for example, Microsoft’s shared background in video calls–to create a shared sense of space. But that is, a pseudo-space: and in fact, a pseudo-reality. Solutionism relies on simulation.

The psychological, humanistic approach will accept reality for what it is and ask for additional thoughtfulness and reflection from those in the grid. I intentionally avoid the term matrix, which came up in a recent conversation. The matrix, being a fictional, pseudo concept, is in itself a form of mediation. When we operate in pseudo-spaces, we compromise for pseudo-identities and mediation of creativity.

Solutionism comes with a cost: more technology creates more mediation, adds fraction to communication, and makes it harder for individuals to wholly show-up, and develop a space of co-creation and thirdness.

Thank you for reading, 
Nitzan