You might find useful two papers by Steve Jones, in which he analyzes internet terminology (and metaphors) borrowed from other areas such as tourism and urban planning: Jones, S. @Henryparkesmotel.com Jones, S. Infostructures, the Internet and Urban Planning. Research by Katherine Hayles can be useful for metaphors about computers and artificial intelligence, Best, Mariana

Hi All,

I am working on a project dealing with the use of metaphor in communication about technology, as well as communication within software. I am trying to compile a list of metaphors used on the web and in computer software. For example, the "shopping cart" in online shopping, PowerPoint using "slides", "dialog" boxes in operating systems, "bulletin boards", etc.

Have any of you come across or perhaps even thought of other metaphors employed in software, online or off, or in communication about technology? I would like to make a giant list of examples.

Also, any recommended readings would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance for any help!

-Gordon Carlson -University of Illinois at Chicago -PhD Student of New Media Communication and RA in Electronic Visualization Lab

Mariana Goya M Doctoral student in Communication at the Institute of Communication Research University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign