Eigenvalue

Eigenvalue provides the first history of ''eigenvalue'' by building an important bridge between the hard and the soft sciences. Originally a mathematical term Hanjo Berressem applies Eigenvalue which roughly translates to proper value to the media studies discipline for the first time providing a philological history and line of development across the sciences through to contemporary cultural studies. Berressem''s groundbreaking work is organized into 2 books with the first book broken down into six topical areas - mathematics physics cybernetics biology literary studies cultural studies. The second book discusses the place of eigenvalues in sound light and literature specifically Alvin Lucier’s experimental composition “I am Sitting in a Room” Bill Morrison’s eight-minute experimental film Light is Calling and the literary works of Thomas Pynchon. Berressem''s thought-provoking philology is an important reference point for readers seeking an authoritative introduction to a term that connects other key ideas in contemporary debate.