Jiří Melzmuf is a philosopher who is currently working in the field of philosophy of photography. Born in Prague, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree at the Faculty of Arts, Charles University. His Bachelor's thesis was focused on the analysis and interpretation of the concept of truth in relation to faith and science in Søren Kierkegaard. He also completed his master's degree at The Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies, Charles University. In his thesis he dealt with the analysis and interpretation of the concept of nature and the description of its relation to dialectical materialism in the work of Karl Marx. Since 2023 he has been focusing on the philosophy of photography as part of his Ph.D. studies at UMPRUM. His research analyses the impact of technological developments on various areas related to photography (recording, processing, distribution).
In addition to his studies, Jiří Melzmuf is involved in interdisciplinary collaboration and projects, such as the journal Flux, which he helped to found during his studies at the Faculty of Arts at the Charles University, and in which he is currently working as an editor.
The Camera as a Tool of Documentation: Technology, Society and Art
Jiří Melzmuf's dissertation project analyses the historical development and current state of photographic and visual technology. He analyses their possibilities and impacts on the development of aesthetic forms and the role of photography in society. The field of research will focus on the area of photography with a documentary intention.
In describing the technical aspects of photography, it highlights the specific differences between analogue and digital media, for example, the differences in the actual taking of the image, processing, distribution and mode of presentation. In addition, he emphasizes the analysis of aesthetic qualities and social context.
Based on an analysis of historical developments, it considers the possibilities of the latest technologies, such as computer imaging or AI-generated images. In doing so, it seeks to gain a deeper understanding of the current state of photography and to predict its possible next shift in terms of technological development.