Cortes's notary: The symbolic power of records     

James M. O'Toole 《Archival Science》2002,2(1-2):45-61

This article explores the relationship between records and various expressions of political and social power. Records are often made and used for explicit, instrumental purposes, designed to put into effect the plans and desires of those with the upper hand in certain relationships. They may also be used to enhance subtler forms of symbolic, emotional, and psychological power. Drawing on a selection of historical examples, the essay argues that record making itself can sometimes be as potent as any particular records resulting from that process. The essay concludes with some speculations on how these powers inherent in records may be changing in the context of current technological developments.  相似文献