Make it Mine, Technology's affordance for self-expression

Personal electronic media devices have evolved from being purposed-based articles into objects of projection; they are now existential embodiments of self. Today, for Generation Y, significance is not found solely in an object's design but rather in the malleability the platform affords. The purpose of design has shifted from aesthetics and performance to self-structured e-media platforms. This is driven primarily by each individual's need for personal possessions to reflect one's self. Aesthetics and performance are a given in today's narcissistic lifestyle. The proliferation of personalized electronic devices among Generation Y has pushed e-media to where product value has been supplanted by personal need and the desire to 'make it mine.' This thesis examines the changes in need and desire for personal possessions. By analyzing Generation Y's communicative evolution and emotional relationships towards malleable e-platforms we begin to understand Gen Y's desire for unrestricted information. These platforms have become a kind of Harry Potter-esque 'Horcrux' -- fragmented pieces of ourselves left in personal electronic media we use today. This is our new reality, our new 'self.'

Name thesis:degree_name

MDES

Level thesis:degree_level

masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Design, Architecture, Art and Planning: Design

Grantor dc:publisher

University of Cincinnati

Year dc:date

2012

Author dc:creator

• Mankosa, Marcey A.

Contributors dc:contributor

• Hildebrandt, Henry

• Design
• Generation Y
• Technium
• Platform
• E-media
• Customization
• Electronic media

Statement dc:rights

• unrestricted
• This thesis or dissertation is protected by copyright: all rights reserved. It may not be copied or redistributed beyond the terms of applicable copyright laws.

Language dc:language

English

Repository record dc:identifier

http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin1337085167

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:etd.ohiolink.edu:ucin1337085167