Why do we pose for photographs in front of monuments and other well-known sites? Of course, there are many reasons. Perhaps we want to show that we understand the importance of the monument and the event it commemorates. In this era of ubiquitous selfies, it could be nothing more than proof that “I was there.” It may be to document a significant event such as a graduation or an anniversary. It might be an attempt to conflate our own importance. Perhaps it is to make a digital postcard to send to someone showing the progress of a trip. It could be a thoughtless juxtaposition of the sacred and profane—a goofy pose contrasted with the seriousness of the memorial. So why do we pose in front of monuments? This project attempts to answer that question.
Jim Pojman
