Member Reviews

Patrick Nathan's work of criticism is such a gift and so needed in this particular moment. He deftly tackles gay assimilationist politics, the aesthetics of "resistance" in the era of Trump, photography and photojournalism, and so much more. I especially appreciated Nathan bringing nuance to the concepts of identity politics and intersectionality as they often play out in modern leftist politics. Lots of ideas in here I'll be chewing on for a while, and a good reminder of the value of reading criticism as well.

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In this unique and interesting criticism of our current lives Patrick Nathan makes us stop and really think about what is going on around us. Images are constantly flying towards us before we have time to react digest another then another. We are used to it, so it seems harmless, normal even and so we fail to realize that we are losing our ability to think critically about the world and everything in it, including ourselves. Pulling from photography, social media, art and his own personal experience we are shown not only how problematic our current culture is, but teaches us how to step back look around and regain control of your self.

Brilliantly researched and a truly fascinating read Image Control is a book unlike any I've come across before yet it has inspired me to keep digging in order to improve upon the life in which we live.

If you like to challenge yourself, question common practices, or simply like to learn about the idea's fueling and influencing society this book is perfect for you!

3.5 out of 5 stars in my opinion, yet still highly recommended. If this concept intrigues you, don't hesitate to pick it up and dive in. You wont be disappointed.

Thank you to netgalley and publishers for providing an advance e-copy of this book so that I may share my honest opinion.

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