Introduction

Abstract

The chapter provides a theoretical introduction to the concept of crisis, its definitions, and frequently discussed types. It is noted that crises sometimes resulted in calls for reform or change. While the reasons for a crisis at times remained unknown, as was in the case of geological disasters which affected vast regions of the world, the human-caused predicaments were frequently critically described and publicized by popular authors, such as Mark Twain or Norman Spinrad, as dire problems which need to be urgently addressed. Although technological crises tended to be treated similarly to natural, unavoidable disasters, they were clearly caused by human activity. It is therefore an important consideration that the new technologies in the twentieth century, whose effects were astutely perceived and described by scholars such as Marshall McLuhan, led to revolutionary changes and subsequent crises in many areas not commonly associated with technology. Finally, the author introduces the other chapters in the edited volume, which deal with the notions of crisis in various areas, such as literature, art, advertising, and teaching, each from their own theoretical perspective.