Singularizing moments

Abstract

This chapter builds on theoretical underpinnings presented in the previous two chapters and the empirical research conducted with my colleagues to examine singularization in the context of NBA Top Shot. The analysis reveals the multidimensional production of singularity. I show how blockchain and non-fungible token (NFT) technologies foster and record singular biographies of digital objects and provide an infrastructure for automated singularization, which works not only in the techno-economic background but also shapes how collectors interpret and experience digital singularities. However, several additional sources are required to produce and sustain the precarious singularity of digital objects. First, singularization is bolstered by narrative means, through stories that imbue digital objects with iconic and indexical meaning. Second, design plays a key role in digital singularization, for example, by mimicking features of established physical singularities and practices of analog collecting. Third, the singularization of digital objects can be bolstered by developing different forms of utility, such as ludic, social and fandom utility that bolster the exclusivity and distinctiveness of digital collectibles from generic digital content. Across all four dimensions, singularization involves multiple actors and remains inescapably precarious.