Cortes's notary: The symbolic power of records |
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| Authors: | James M O'Toole |
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| Institution: | (1) Department of History, Boston College, 02467 Chestnut Hill, MA, USA |
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| Abstract: | 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. |
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| Keywords: | archival theory literacy record-making resistance tyranny |
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