Porter, Zander "Transindividual Equations/Matrices: Schizoid Therapeutics for a Post-neoliberal Cyber-worlding." Master's
, Amsterdam University of the Arts, 2023
Keywords/Fields of Study : network, transindividual, individuation, choreography, interdisciplinary, post-internet, queer theory, performance studies, schizoanalysis, disembodiment, prosthesis, therapeutics, ceremonial, matrix
Abstract: This thesis, developed for DAS Choreography (DAS Graduate School – Amsterdam University of the Arts), coincides with the choreographic/theatrical performance work 3M0T1NG{/n3tw0rk1ng} and is published by Performance Philosophy. It explores contemporary disembodiment influenced by the internet within a neoliberal-capitalist-globalized network. Utilizing discourses between psychoanalysis and schizoanalysis, the study examines affective constructs, emotive vs. emotional identification, and network/device matrices, conceptualizing these networks as metaphysical, psychosomatic, and physical inter-realities. The research adopts an experimental form, seeking to meander and play within epistemological frameworks, queering conventional sense-making.Central to the thesis is the re-illustration of “networking” within a theorized and staged post-neoliberal context, critically surveying big-tech and social media colonization of expressiveness and relationality. The work proposes new ceremonies, rituals, or telepathic care forms for technogenetic togetherness in a post-internet-bodied world. The ongoing performance practice 3M0T1NG explores this togetherness within a xeno-spacetime, involving intersecting collectivities of personal selves and devices, inviting them to intermingle and unbecome through emoting exercises. These exercises explore psychic dissociations via fractured, asymmetrical mirroring of bodies and selves. The thesis also considers the mythos and semiotics of networked devices, engaging with transhumanist discourses on technological advancements and their impact on corpo-reality. It critically examines the moral and ethical implications of technological progress within the anthropogenic/apocalyptic narrative. By emphasizing the potent role of personal devices, the research both protests and meditates on hyper-dimensional techno-spacetime, seeking transindividual release, exposure, vulnerability, and cooperation.Having addressed a paradox of image proximity and hyper-networked individualities, the writing ultimately proposes strategies for hybrid body-device entities (cyborgs) to transduce anew between sensual, social, visual, and psychic realms. The thesis re-envisions technogenesis, coordinating directions for psychotherapeutic, relational, and affective dimensions in individualizing, networked world(s) of increasing magnitudes. Both current and future related work includes the contextualization of the choreographic/staged artistic production towards workshop-modes shareable in universities, art/workshop spaces, and LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and other community centers internationally.
Department: DAS Choreography
, Amsterdam University of the Arts
Advisor(s): Jeroen Fabius
