The Feline Facet of Modern Media
The curious proliferation of cat images in media might seem just for fun, but if we really look into it, there are connections with globalization and the theory of Constructivism. Constructivism, in the context of international relations, emphasizes the role of social constructs and interactions in shaping global norms and behaviors. Cats, through their extensive representation in media from early postcards to today’s digital platforms, show how societal constructs can traverse and influence global culture.
In the early 20th century, the Edwardian Postcard Project indicates the beginnings of how cats became a staple in popular culture, much like their digital descendants on today’s internet.
The article from BBC News Mundo, “Es una ley fundamental de la comunicación,” says that as soon as a new communication technology emerges, it is swiftly populated with cat imagery.
This not only reflects the special relationship humans have with their pets but also the changing ways humans connect and communicate globally.
These cat images are not just passive entertainers; they often carry heavier cultural and political connotations. Historically, cats featured on postcards, sometimes dressed in suffragette colors, raising funds for social causes like women’s voting rights. This melds perfectly with constructivist theory, which would posit that these representations help construct social reality by influencing perceptions and behaviors at a global scale.
Today, the persistence of cat imagery on platforms like Instagram and Facebook continues to shape cultural norms. Cats are an integral and adorable part of globalization. They demonstrate how societal interests and trends can gain international traction, influencing global media consumption patterns and even political discourse. Thus, cats in media do more than entertain—they reflect and contribute to the evolving tapestry of globalized society.
As we ponder the globalization of media, the omnipresence of cats offers a charming yet profound lens through which to view the complex interactions of culture, technology, and international relations.
Whether through a meme or a vintage postcard, cats continue to claw at the curtains of global communication, revealing the interconnected nature of world cultures.
- Walker, A. (2024, 6 octubre). “Es una ley fundamental de la comunicación”: por qué cuando surge una nueva tecnología, la gente la llena con imágenes de gatos. BBC News Mundo. https://www.bbc.com/mundo/articles/c77xd660d4vo
- ChatGPT. (n.d.). OpenAI. https://chat.openai.com/#
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