Digital Radiation: A Look at the Dehumanising Effect of Rationalisation Through the Prism of Dystopian Film

Abstract

This paper examines the process of rationalization – its agencies, consequences for society and the effect on humans. It attempts to entangle the complex web of paradigms and procedures that we call rationalization, firstly by looking at it as a system based on unconditional efficiency and controllability, then as a process of transferring those premises onto social relations, and finally as an irrational entity which stands over and above all else and shifts purposes and power, which in turn necessarily effects humans. These tendencies will be presented though a brief reflection on the philosophy of science. A synthesis of several authors’ perspectives on this issue will be given (e.g. Weber, Ritzer), followed by a brief discussion on irrationality of relevant rationalization processes and dehumanization as their fundamental tendency. By deriving dystopia from rationalization, fears and expectations from these tendencies will be observed through the prism of dystopian film. Due to its capacity to display both intended and unintended content, film is chosen as an indicator or a reflection of the process of rationalization and as a projection of futures based upon it. By revealing the false foundations of the rationalization paradigm and its ontologically fragmenting effects on both the individual and society, the paper argues for a need to stay aware of these processes in order to be able to discern a more adequate, humane horizon.