#3.3 Cyberspace in Outer Space
- alex-fenwick
- Jul 23, 2017
- 2 min read
The concept of space has always intrigued me. That there can be infinite numbers of planets, amongst the billions of galaxies within just the observable universe is a fact that has never truly failed to astound me. The grandeur and alluring complexities of outer space, paired with it's value as a scientific labyrinth of unknowns certainly is something to be marvelled. To think that within our floating insignificant planet, situated within our insignificant galaxy enough brains have collaborated together to code, create and consummate a cyberspace so vast and advanced it can connect individuals from alternate sides of the planet simultaneously is something equally worthy of my wonder. The term cyberspace was coined by William Gibson in his 1984 book "Neuromancer". It is described by Gibson as:
"A consensual hallucination experienced daily by billions of legitimate operators, in every nation... A graphic representation of data abstracted from the banks of every computer in the human system. Unthinkable complexity. Lines of light ranged in the non-space of the mind, clusters and constellations of data. Like city lights, receding" (Gibson, 1984, p.69)
Such a description is truly eloquent and beautiful when compared with the Merriam Webster Dictionaries take on it; simply described as, "the online world of computer networks" (Merriam Webster Dictionary, 2017). Speaking less broadly, cyberspace transcends non-technologically mediated communication. Wherever and whenever an individual uses a device with internet connectivity in their pursuit of knowledge and human connection, they are entering into the vast, infinity that is cyberspace. Cyberspace is an intangible realm where barriers to communication are thwarted and conversation between individuals living in different countries and timezones who speak different languages are able to connect and communicate. It is an interconnected network, facilitated by technology.
REFERENCES:
Boone, T. (2017). Cyberspace and E Journals. Professionalization of Exercise Physiology Online- An International Electronic Journal for Exercise Physiologists, 3(2).
Gibson, W. (1984). Neuromancer. New York: Ace Books, p.69.
Merriam Webster Dictionary (2017). Definition of CYBERSPACE. [online] Merriam Webster Dictionary. Available at: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cyberspace [Accessed 23 Jul. 2017].
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