The Concept of Augmented Reality: from Technology to Sociology

Abstract

This article analyzes the genesis of the concept of augmented reality. It is shown that developed in the IT sector the concept of augmented reality as «a system that combines the real and the virtual, being interactive and providing the possibility of three-dimensional representation of objects» [R. Azuma] is somewhat limited, which does not allow to go beyond the problems of technological development. The article describes the cognitive potential of a new, broad interpretation of this phenomenon as a physical reality, augmented with digital information through a permanent connection to the data circulating in the depths of the Internet. This understanding of augmented reality creates background for «sociological turn» in its interpretation, which is expressed in the denial of a dichotomous division for the «real» and «virtual» worlds. The article deals with the contexts of use of the concept of augmented reality in the sociological discourse, in particular, such as the social consequences of wide spread of digital technologies; sociology of technology; sociology of Internet, cybersociology, digital sociology; media culture.