Eigenvalue

<i>Eigenvalue</i> 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 <i>proper value</i> 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 <i>Light is Calling</i>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.