Ikonokra

Ikonokra is a term used primarily in theoretical discussions within media studies, art criticism, and digital religion studies. It refers to a framework for examining how icons—images, symbols, and visual representations—function as agents in culture, politics, and identity formation.

The coinage appears to be a neologism formed from the Greek root eikon- “image” and a suffix common in academic terms; its earliest appearances are found in online scholarly discussions from the early 2020s.

In practice, ikonokra is used to study the production, circulation, reception, and contestation of icons across platforms. Proponents argue that it foregrounds the power relations embedded in visual culture and helps explain how icons shape audience interpretation, mobilize collective action, and influence trust in institutions. Researchers examine case studies ranging from corporate logos and religious symbols to memes and user interface icons.

Critics note that ikonokra overlaps with established concepts such as iconography, iconoclasm, meme theory, and digital visual culture, and they caution against conflating distinct phenomena under a single label. They call for clearer definitions and methodological guidelines to avoid ambiguity.

See also: Iconography; Iconoclasm; Digital iconography; Meme theory.