| This dissertation examines glucose monitoring technology to contribute to the area of media and technology studies. Further, this projects examines theoretical discussions of 'materiality' as related to technology and the interplay with the human body. Taking a critical approach, this dissertation provides four different 'case studies' related to glucose monitoring, used by diabetics to gain a modicum of 'control' over their errant bodes after the failure of the pancreas. This dissertation unites critical analysis with autoethnographic accounts of using glucose monitors to highlight the intricate interconnections between technology and human users. First, a history of glucose monitoring as a media technology is provided. Second, the impact of different forms of glucose monitoring on the individual diabetic is explored through a first person narrative account. Third, this project examines the interplay between the providers and the hackers of diabetic technology. And finally, this project considers the materiality of the body. |
