Methodological problems in the studying of printing in Korea

This article is distant polemic with the researcher T. Lo on the problem of finding the best methodological approach to the study of the influence of the printing method on medieval Korean society. Traditionally, McLuhan's approach is used for the history of printing in Europe, based on the premise that technology contributes to the creation of new media. However, any changes in society, caused by the new way of communication, can't be seen with application of this theory to the history of mobile printing in Korea. Taken as a basis by Dr. Lo as opposed to McLuhan's «hard determinism» concept Р. Levinson's «soft determinism» seems quite appropriate. By P. Levinson, new technical tools make changes in society possible, but not inevitable. In addition, in his concept delayed and indirect effects are such important. But we would like to express some comments on the findings of T. Lo relatively long-term effects impact of typography.