Io siamo | Maria Claudia Pignata | TEDxBelluno

Quick Overview

Maria Claudia Pignata explores the concept of "Attrazione" (Attraction) by examining its evolution from historical, mythological, and literary contexts (like Narcissus and Glaucus) to its contemporary manifestations in the digital age, arguing that modern attraction is increasingly mediated by technology, often focusing on the curated "Io sono" (I am) identity rather than authentic connection.

Key Points: The presentation examines the concept of "Attrazione" (Attraction) across history, contrasting ancient myths with modern digital realities. Pignata introduces three methodological sets concerning attraction: the spatial/temporal framework (physical vs. digital attraction), the sociological framework (individual identity vs. collective identity), and the artistic framework (how art represents attraction). The speaker references the myth of Narcissus, whose self-obsession led to death, as a metaphor for modern self-focus, contrasting it with the myth of Glaucus, who achieved immortality through contact with nature. Pignata highlights that contemporary attraction is heavily influenced by digital platforms, where the curated self (avatars, social media images) often replaces genuine human connection. The speaker, co-founder of VeniSIA, emphasizes that the modern self-concept ("Io sono") has become the primary reference point, often leading to a culture where self-demonstration trumps connection with the 'other' or with nature. The talk suggests that true attraction involves recognizing the self as part of a larger whole (a species, nature) rather than solely focusing on individual possession or status.

Context: Maria Claudia Pignata, co-founder of VeniSIA, delivers a TEDx talk themed "Attrazione" (Attraction) at TEDxBelluno on 18.02.2023. Her presentation dissects how the meaning and mechanisms of attraction—derived historically from Latin roots implying 'to draw near'—have been profoundly altered by digital technology, social media, and evolving societal structures, contrasting mythological archetypes with contemporary self-obsession.