The methods that ancient peoples used to preserve information had their drawbacks, but were astoundingly ingenious nonetheless. The idea to record information on clay tablets, for example, during a period when word of mouth transmission was the only available means, was a huge leap forward for human civilization. And although the ancient methods of engraving or carving on clay or stone seem completely foreign to modern sensibilities, the underlying objective remains constant. We may have changed mediums from clay, stone, and skin to paper and silicon, but the main goal, that of preserving and sharing information with some fidelity, remains the same now as it did in ancient times.
Although I have an affinity for the physical forms of texts, I believe that the digital forms are the only ones that can truly stand the test of time. The physical forms are just too prone to damage and wear. Consider, for example, what huge wealths of human knowledge were lost in the fire of Alexandria in ancient times, or how many irreplaceable artifacts and texts were sacked or destroyed in Taliban occupied territories during modern times. Digital formats, having virtually infinite capacity and being infinitely reproducible, are not susceptible to the same type of damage or deterioration that their physical counterparts are.
Another benefit to digital formats is their democratizing ability. Digitization allows for almost anyone in the world to have access to information that historically would have only been available to a select few, making texts easier and more affordable to study than if they were in one physical place. Digitization of texts also limits the wear and tear on the physical objects, so it also helps in the preservation of those texts.
Whether discussing how many goats we used for a purchase or how many likes we got for a post, humans will always have something to say. Luckily, we have a means to record all those oh-so meaningful discussions in perpetuity so that later generations can revisit them and be in awe of their eloquence.
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Hi Daniel, I believe the ancient way of preserving information was indeed ingenious. They were able to use natural resources like stones and clay to disseminate information. This work of art needs to be commended. This method of preserving information can be lost if not stored properly. With the advent of technology, it is easier and more convenient to store information. Whether it is the digital or ancient method, the common goal is to preserve and share information. It gives most people the convenience of having information digitally, this can be stored for a long time. The ancient method has given the us ideas or reasons to share information in this manner and it helps us to make improvements on our digital method. We will always be able to retrieve information more easily and with a peace of mind.
Access and democratization are a huge part of why digital spaces have in some ways taken over as the main form of preserving and sharing information, for sure. On the other hand, some digital formats are more stable than others — think of how much has already been lost from floppy disks that have become unreadable, or from early websites that no one thought to archive..!