War-focused social documentary as a tool for global change

Abstract

The article observes the war-focused social documentary use while calling for global change. It considers a form of documentary photography within the idea to draw the wide public's attention to vital ongoing war-caused social problems and issues. We also characterize social documentary as a critical genre of photography, dedicated to reflection of the life of different people, underprivileged or disadvantaged as a result of the war. The terms “war”, and “war of aggression” are concretized. It is also stated, that while conversations, political speeches, press reports or publications, the word “war” may be used to express any serious struggle, strife or campaign. Thus, references are frequently made to “war on corruption”, “war against drug dillers”, “war of worlds” or “war of genders”: the metaphor of war usually serves to convey the stressfullness of the situation, and such a metaphor must not be taken literally. Also, the difference between Social Documentary and Photojournalism is characterized: photos are usually taken for the future reference, whereas photojournalism images are predominantly meant for the short-term public involvement. Social Documentary images definitely may be stored for the long-term study, enabling better understanding of the modern world we live in, making sense of our living, discovering the way other people live. Article characterizes the main thematic motives of social documentary, such as: child labor, child neglect, homelessness, poverty, impoverished children and the elderly, and hazardous working conditions, and outlines the peculiarities of their interpretation in the context of war. Social documentary is to preserve the most important events or parts of the history – some details or archival footage that would rather be buried. This gives not only a better understanding of current events, but also a prospective of what we might face in the future. Social documentary can be an effective tool to influence our preconceptions, and develop empathy towards human beings or any creature suffering. By bringing personal stories to light, documentaries can aim much-needed wider audience’s awareness on to war-caused social problems, and facilitate the search for solution. The article also deals with the difference between Social Documentary and Pictorial Manipulation, which are often used to shape public opinion within global digitalized informational space.