The Universe of Waste: On Culture and Decomposition
The aim of this study is to analyze processes of cultural attrition. Its point of departures is garbage and waste disposal in a broad sense. In recent cultural theory, the lack of interest in processes of wear and tear and decay is obvious. Research and debate have focused on cultural construction, formation, and creation of identity. This study focuses on the opposite, on cultural decomposition. The ambition is also to develop analytical tools in understanding cultural attrition. How does cultural forms get worn out and used up? How do metaphors and models belonging to biodegradation or material fatigue failure influence ideas of cultural aging? In what way are discursive elements from material, cultural and bodily decay entwined together? Which answers can be given on questions of aestheticism, cultural- and civilization-critique, global matters, nostalgia, recycling, and regeneration? Waste disposal is a growing problem in consumer society. In spite of campaigns and technical innovation, it is often hard to persuade people to change practices and attitudes. A cultural analysis can give important contributions in understanding individual as well as societal perspectives when decisions on implementation are linked to discursive conceptions on clean and unclean, life-quality and a healthy environment.
