Saturday, June 7, 2008

Week 11 Forum - Philosophy of Music/Environmental Discussion

This week we discussed the philosophy of music which quickly led to a discussion of the environment in general.

Generally I think I kind of overlook the impact my music making has on the environment and take the attitude of "I need it, therefore no point in stressing about it's impact". I found another guy's blog interesting with a kind of existentialist vibe. But I disagree - I believe in right and wrong and I think everyone makes a difference. I do think it's slightly strange that we always assume we know what is good and bad. Meursault was so addictive.

The most interesting thing that I heard in forum was Steven's comment about an aboriginal group that decreased its palette of tools because it didn't need as many in a new location. Forgot that that was possible - doesn't seem to be the Western way. We have such an obsession with hoarding resources and increasing everything we can. I don't think we could ever stop now (without some kind of crisis) but it doesn't seem very worthwhile because it obviously doesn't actually make us happy. But also I agree with Steven that technology has got us into this mess and hopefully it can get us out.

References: 
  • Steven Whittington. "Week 11 Music Technology Forum - Philosophy of Music". Lecture presented at the Electronic Music Unit, University of Adelaide, 29 May 2008.
  • David Harris. "Week 11 Music Technology Forum - Philosophy of Music". Lecture presented at the Electronic Music Unit, University of Adelaide, 29May 2008.

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