Towards a Taxonomy of Exclusions

Recent shift from comparing systems of individual and machinic memory in film towards analyzing filmic and real-world conflict zones in order to develop a Taxonomy of Exclusions. This Taxonomy specifically seeks to identify and understand patterns of isolation and alienation. My goal is to perceive the complex transmutations and movements taking place in relation to "outsider" systems and the recursive impact on "insider" systems.

I am interested in a local social conflict zone - the enormous population (estimated at 70 -90,000 people) of homeless in Los Angeles. I am interested in other pockets of outsiders and outside-ness, especially when they exist parasitically within a power-scape.

For purposes of classification I have identified 2 forms of isolation (spatial properties and needs) and 2 forms of alienation (directionality of information and visibility):

• Extensive Isolation = Covering or affecting a large area, requiring little attention or expense.
  
• Intensive Isolation = Concentrated in a limited area, requiring much attention or expense.
  

• Unidirectional Alienation = Hierarchical (in)visibility, presence, information flow and exchange.
  
• Polydirectional Alienation = Reciprocal (in)visibility, presence, information flow and exchange.

Extensive isolation zones could be characterized as Exile Space and intensive isolation zones as Control Space.

Notes:

1. Zones of exclusion are defined relationally and operate in mutual symbiosis or parasitically.
   
2. Each zone must have a system of waste production and circulation.
   
3. Some individuals travel between zones, some do not.
   
4. Distinct zones carry distinct risks, rewards and consequences for inter-zone movement.