Lab+2


 * Why is the definition of genre controversial and not so applicable to the formation of digital genres?**

A genre is a category of sorts, where the medium is characterized by various 'traits'. Film, music or art of a certain genre are observed as following certain genre conventions. In the digital age, definitions of genre have become controversial due to the immense amount of sources of inspiration as well as creation. Technology is making it easier and easier for anyone to create an art form. What were once meticulous processes of creation are now simple, effective and at the fingertips of a million kids with the access to a computer. Furthermore, the number of genres out there today are almost uncountable considering how many different forms of technology there. Take the iPhone application as an example. The iPhone application itself can be classified as a genre as all iPhone applications are expected to follow a certain 'standard'. But is this definition of genre controversial? It seems appropriate considering how many new technologies are appearing along with the art forms that follow. To me, it seems like the next logical progression of genre as older mediums are slowly dying out or at least being adopted by new technologies. What may seem controversial is undeniable convergence of different technologies and genres to form new ones. The formation of digital genres must take into account a wide range of influences as well as a number of new technological creation processes. This leads to new digital genres appearing to be homogenized to the beholder. Hence, I understand how the definition of genre is not so applicable to digital genres as they are best described as melting pots of other genres and various technologies. Ultimately, we must embrace the new creation processes we see today. Never have people been so creative and willing to share their work with the world and the most reasonable thing to do is embrace how technology is influencing creativity and genre.