Blog Post 2: Time VS. Space Bias

 2. The film Pontypool provides an interesting explanation of Harold Innis’ theory of time-bias and space-bias. Time-bias refers to a quality of some media that prioritizes longevity and continuity over the capacity to disseminate information rapidly over large distances. In contrast, space-bias is the propensity of some communication technology to give quick, widespread information dissemination precedence over long-term preservation. Since the virus in Pontypool has infected physical words, space-bias is most present, especially due to the use of radio, telephone and amplification technologies. 

The employment of radio, telephone and amplification devices demonstrates the space-biased theory. These media forms increase the virus's reach and foster a culture in which communication isolates individuals due to infection rather than uniting them through common understanding. These technologies enable a more expansive and quicker spread, a characteristic of space-biased media. With this being said, media forms like the telephone and radio have a role in Pontypool which highlight how modern media forms reproduce aspects of oral culture while introducing new Sociotechnical affordances. Radio takes on the role of a transmitter of information and the radio host, a conduit for oral speech, becomes an agent of the virus.

Meghan