Harold Innis - The Bias of Communications

Communication, while in the presence of others, is essentially free from dependence on physical material. In contrast, interface communication is bound by its inherent composition (clay, paper, papyrus, etc), which can cause sensory distortion. In his book, The Bias of Communication, Harold Innis notes the material composition of a medium can produce time and space biases, affect human perception, and cause unique disruption based on material structure. Innis argued time and space biased media are integral limitations which shape social and cultural change. In particular, the material of the media is important in understanding its innate bias and how it affects a society. Innis concludes, heavy or durable materials favor preservation of knowledge, but are not easily transportable. Because stone and clay are difficult to move, they are time bound and reluctant to territorial expansion. In contrast, light materials are more conducive to transport and are easily communicated over greater distances. Furthermore, time biased media facilitate expansion over greater distances.

Inferences can be drawn from material composition and its subsequent biases. Innis states, “…in Western civilization a stable society is dependent on an appreciation of a proper balance between the concepts of space and time” (Innis). Taking into account, understanding, and stabilizing time and space biased media is necessary for society stability.

Mounting growth in sources of information influence the acquisition of new opinions, alter retention levels, and impact meaningful reflection. Such concerns are articulated by Innis. However, an increase in the mechanization of knowledge is not necessarily analogous with individual creative thought (Innis). Furthermore, Innis states, “Enormous improvements in communication have made understanding more difficult” (Innis). As the amount of information increases, the ability to appropriately manage it becomes more important. In social environments around the globe, the material composition of varied interfaces contributes to unique situations of social aggravation. While some effects are inevitable, others may be relieved of severity through proper human attention.