Ecotones: a Conceptual Contribution to Postdigital Thinking

In this paper, we explore the notion of ecotones and argue how it can contribute to postdigital thinking. We do so using two empirical examples as backdrop for our discussions. We argue the concept of ecotones can add to postdigital research particularly in relation to addressing problematic dichotomies such as the digital vs analogue/material. We highlight how the notion of ecotones has a conceptual dimension having to do with tensions, diversity and richness emerging in the meeting between two entities. Secondly, we discuss how ecotones have a spatial and material dimension. Through the analysis of empirical examples, we discuss how the notion of ecotones can contribute to postdigital theory and analytic approach to dichotomies, such as the digital vs analogue/material. Further, we discuss ecotones in relation to hybridity and liminality, which are similar concepts.