It is not often that Vygotsky, Lacan and Kittler are referenced together, let alone in a discussion of user interfaces. But all of them have a common interest in the “mediated” development of the subject. Based on this, I consider each in the light of the relatively recent mediation of computer functions via the “windows, icons, menus, pointer” interface. I begin with a discussion of psychology and psychoanalysis; next, I review Kittler’s reading of Lacan. Finally, I conclude by focusing on the role of psychological categories in the early development of the modern graphical user interface, specifically in the work of Alan C. Kay.

1. Doing with Icons makes Symbols: The (Dys)functionality of the User Interface [email_address] http://normfriesen.info

2. Part I: Introduction - Media Theories of the Unconscious

8. Part 2: “You have yet to become the Medium”

11. Kay Kittler mouse enactive REAL icons, windows iconic IMAGINARY Smalltalk symboli c SYMBOLIC

13. Part 3: “Doing with Images makes Symbols”

16. Kay DOING enactive mouse with IMAGES iconic icons, windows makes SYMBOLS symboli c Smalltalk

18. DOING enactive mouse with IMAGES iconic icons, windows makes SYMBOLS symboli c Smalltalk

21. Part 4 - Conclusion: “The perfect graphic user interface?”