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Blog Post #10

Q1.) Which part of Fuchs’ social media alternatives seemed most important/stood out to you the most?

A1.) The alternative that stood out to me the most was the idea of corporate watch platforms as a form of struggle against corporatism. This idea that the big corporations keep an eye on the public is in some ways frightening. From keeping tabs on what things we search the most, to what products we “like” the most, in order to present those things in advertisements, it makes you wonder how these companies would feel if they public were to keep watch of them. The role of the consumer is to critique these major businesses, and be sure to keep them in check. This allows consumers to expose corporate injustices or wrong doings.

Q2.) What is Jaron Lanier’s total commodification of the internet?

A2.) Jaron Lanier is a clear supporter of capitalism. He promotes expanding surveillance to create a completely commodified internet experience. Still, capitalism includes a class based system in society and attempts to open people up to exploitation. So, this makes you question the role class plays regarding the internet, and what influence different classes have over the online population. In addition, he a suggests that this idea of working for free is basically ruining the middle class, and digital workers that are being exploited should be compensated for there input, especially if it’s used and considered valuable.

Q3.) How does The Patriot Act attempt to diminish the influence of democracy?

A3.) The Patriot Act came to be post 9/11, and basically legalized forms of surveillance such as wiretapping and search warrants. It gave the government the ability to impose on citizen rights when they believe there is a threat present at the time. Still, this act clearly challenges democracy, and attempts to diminish it in ways. Taking away or encroaching on rights that citizens are supposed to have access to is a clear example, not to mention the ability of federal investigators to pick the judge of their choice when it comes to attempting to acquire a search warrant. This allows the investigators to basically pick a judge that they for sure know will support them and provide the “ok” for the warrant.

Q4.) What is the TIA and Human ID?

A4.) TIA stands for the Total Information Awareness project. They basically wanted to collect information on the everyday lives of citizens in the United States. They wanted access to things like credit card transactions, bank accounts, and health records to create an entire database with quick and easy access to the information they required. Related to this was the Human ID, which would collect information from video cameras and use that footage to identify individuals through cameras set up in public places. Ultimately, I feel this is slightly concerning, considering that fact that you could be an everyday individual, and have all your records, and even geographical location tracked at any time of the day, simply by connecting your photo from a video camera or other device, and connecting it to another device in a completely different place. I understand how these things could become quite useful when attempting to track a criminal or terrorist, but when does it go too far?

References:

Fuchs, Christian. Social Media: A Critical Introduction. 2nd ed., SAGE Publications, 2017

Parenti, Christian. The Soft Cage: Fear as an Institution. Basic Books, 2003.

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Blog Post #9

Q1). Is there a digital divide present in today’s society?

A1.) Most people around the world have access to the internet. Where those places be at the home, at school, the workplace, library or even at local shops and restaurants. Typically public places provide access to the internet, as well as desktop computers or tablets to use. Although some places internationally may not have a strong a connection, most places have become quite connected with technology and the internet. Since the creation of things like The Black Press, MWM, and Naijanet, I think that race doesn’t necessarily play a role in the digital divide as much anymore. I believe the divide is more surrounding things like age. Typically older people tend to not use technology or the internet as much as younger generations do, but this does not necessarily mean they don’t have access to it. So perhaps the digital divide isn’t as prevalent in today’s society.

Q2.) How was Zeke Spier radicalized, or activated, by the internet?

A2.) Zeke Spier was a college student arrested with others during a protest. He was later interviewed for a book and discussed how the internet encouraged him to become active in protests and other things. Ultimately the internet provided a place for him to become informed, and get in touch with other people about where things were taking place, and how to become involved.

Q3.) Why is online activism useful?

A3.) Online activism is a perfect way to get people connected and organized. The internet provides a place for people with the same values and ideas on society to become in touch with each other, and possibly eventually organize to participate in protests and resistances. Activists are able to reach out to others and make their voices heard in ways that were clearly not as easy before the internet was established.

Q4.) What is hacktivism?

A4.) Hacktivism involves using the internet and other technologies in order to promote varying political and social views. It can work to advocate for things like freedom of speech or possibly against social injustices that may be taking place in society. It involves hacking websites or platforms to advance one’s message, whether it be more of a political viewpoint, or a social one.

Vegh, Sandor. "Classifying Forms of Online Activism: The Case of Cyberprotests against the World Bank." 2003.

Everett, Anna. "The Revolution Will Be Digitized: Afrocentricity and The Digital Public Sphere." vol. 20, 2002, pp. 126-46.

Elin, Larry. "The Radicalization of Zeke Spier: How the Internet Contributes to Civic Engagement and New Forms of Social Capital." 2003.

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Blog Post #8

Q1.) Should physical attributes (hair types/tattoos) decide what types of jobs you can apply for?

A1.) No. Things like tattoos and hairstyles are forms of self expression. They’re ways of people showing the world who they are and who they want to be. Just because someone may have tattoos or different hairstyles, doesn’t mean that their levels of education, experience or qualifications are lower than anyone else’s.

Q2.) How do virtual homeplaces provide safe, comforting places for people to go to?

A2.) As discussed in the reading, many women of color that may have been judged or treated differently for things like their hair, find security and safety in virtual home places. There, they are able to relate to other women that may struggle with the same problems. It provides a safe space for them to express themselves and be who they are without feeling any kind of shame or disrespect.

Q3.) Would increased education about hairstyles/culture change rules regarding hair in the workplace or school?

A3.) Perhaps if the people that created the rules surrounding hair in certain work environments and school were to be educated that it’s not as easy to just “go straighten your hair” to fix the problem. People use their hair for expression, and even as ways to display their culture. So maybe if rule makers were to be more considerate and avoid being ignorant, they would be able to understand the form of expression better.

Q4.) As discussed in class regarding the Gamergate movement, do you believe the men in the gaming world were actually marginalized ?

A4.) No. The majority of gamers include white males. Although it is unfair that some people may be having people they have relationships with review their games, it is no excuse to shame and attack the people who may do so. Women in video games is not as common in the gaming world, so attacking and disrespecting them to force them out of gaming is wrong and no way is an excuse for feeling marginalized.

References:

Lee, L. "Virutal Homeplace." 2015, pp. 1-26.

Hathaway, Jay. "What Is Gamergate, and Why? An Explainer for Non-Geeks." 10 Oct. 2014.

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Blog Post #7

Q1.) Should Wikileaks be considered bad or dangerous?

A1.) I believe it’s important to look at and understand both points of view when it comes to discussing Wikileaks. According to some, Wikileaks may seem wrong. If it’s involved in leaking secret information regarding the security of the United States, then in some sense, yes it is a dangerous thing. Especially if that information could lead to the harm of American citizens and the country itself. Still, if some information leaked is has a direct influence on the lives of United States citizens, then yes, the information should be shared. Citizens have a right to know essential intelligence regarding their lives, and who may be watching what they do.

Q2.) Should Wikipedia be considered a source of reliable information?

A2.) As discussed in class, Wikipedia was not exactly a reliable source in past times due to the ability to change basically anything on the site. Typically teachers and professors advise you not to take information from Wikipedia for papers or projects. The information posted could not always necessarily be true and there wasn’t really anyone to keep track. Now, there moderators have been established through a voting process. These moderators can work to remove any inappropriate or unwanted material posted, including fact checking. 

Q3.) Why is Wikipedia considered Web 3.0?

A3.) Wikipedia is considered Web 3.0 because it basically revolves around the user. Users are able to post their own things on Wikipedia, with the surveillance of the moderators of course, but all the posts and work comes from everyday people and users. The site itself basically just serves as a place to display the information, while the users pretty much do all the work and provide the information

Q4.) Does Wikipedia vary from other social media platforms? In what ways?

Q4.) Wikipedia is similar to other social media platforms in the idea that there are posts created by the users. Although the posts on Wikipedia aren’t necessarily about expressing oneself like they’d be on Instagram and Facebook, they’re still made up of work done by the participants/users of that site. On the other hand, Wikipedia isn’t completely focused on the interest of capitalistic gain. Whereas Instagram and Facebook sell user data in order to make profits off of their users.

Benkler, Yochai. "A Free Irresponsible Press: Wikileaks and the Battle over the Soul of the Networked Fourth Estate." vol. 46.

Fuchs, Christian. Social Media: A Critical Introduction. 2nd ed., SAGE Publications, 2017.

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Ethical Algorithm Post #6

1.) If I were to create an algorithm for a social media platform, it would focus on who the users interact with the most on the site in order to make their postings show up on the user’s timeline first. This could include who’s photos they like the most, and more importantly, who they’re communicating with the most out of all their followers.

2.) The factors would be determined by who’s pages the user’s are visiting most, who’s pictures they like the most, and ultimately who they’re talking with most of the time. This could include comments on posts, or even who they tag and share posts from other accounts with a a majority of the time.

3.) The algorithm would not allow the collecting and selling of user data without the clear and knowing consent of the users. Although that’s typically how these platforms accumulate a profit, user data must be willingly provided to the social media platform admin in order to be sold to other companies for a profit.

4.) Obviously as times change, the algorithm will need to be adjusted to fit the alterations taking place in society and on social media. The algorithm would work to stay updated on who users come into most contact with online and talk to the most, since these factors are constantly changing.

5.) When it comes to biases, the algorithm will work to be sure that while everyone is communicating and interacting with others, no hate speech or unnecessary language used to harm others would be tolerated. Although slightly limiting the users freedom, it would ensure that all users are able to feel safe and experience the platform without having to be worried about attacks from other profiles.

6.) As mentioned above, the algorithm will avoid selling user data of unwillingly participants, in an attempt to keep ethical matters in mind. In addition, the algorithm will work to regulate any use of discrimination towards other users in order to keep the social media platform a fun and safe place to be.

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Blog Post #5

Q1.) How does does racism shape the way certain social media platforms are used?

A1.) Racism can become prevalent on different types of social media platforms, and ultimately effect they way users may engage with that specific site. If hate and racism are present, that may influence the individuals under attack by other users to avoid that platform. In addition, that may lead to the removal of some accounts leading the hate speech, and hopefully create more supervision of people’s posts.

Q2.) How does racism differ when an account may be set to private?

A2.) Typically, if your account is set to private, you have complete control over who follows you or becomes your friend. So, only a select amount of people that you feel comfortable with showing your account to have the ability to like, comment or retweet your posts. Racism may not tend to occur as much, since most of your followers you are likely to know personally, and possibly have relationships with. If your account is set to public, you may be more likely to come across individuals that may not be as accepting and more judgmental toward your postings. In addition, it may be harder to control it, yes you can block and report comments, but you don’t really control who can comment on your work.

Q3.) In relation to the Pink Troll avatar mentioned in the TedTalk from class, how does racism influence the way someone may present themselves through their avatar?

Q3.) As mentioned in the TedTalk, the Pink Trolls from the game are frequently attacked because of the users thought to be controlling them. Similarly, if someone may be attacked with hate about their race simply based on their avatar, they may be more likely to adjust their avatar into a style that they may feel more comfortable in, or to an avatar that they think will fit in and not receive so much hate based on their looks. 

Q4.) What does your avatar/handle/profile photo say about you?

A4.) When it comes to handles on social media, I typically just stick to my name with a number that I typically used for sports behind it. I don’t really get creative with it, just plain so it’s easy for my friends or family to find my account. When it comes to my profile photo, I usually try to choose a picture that I feel confident in and want people to see first when coming across my account. I feel like when it comes to profile pictures for most people, they try to show themselves in their best light. Lastly, for my avatar, I mainly use Bitmoji. I tried to make my avatar look as close to myself as I could. That included hair color, eye color and clothing style that I would actually wear in real life. I enjoy Bitmoji so much that I even convinced my parents and siblings to create them, and we have spent quite a bit of time trying to make them look very similar to their real life look. Bitmoji has a variety of looks and clothing styles, which makes it easy for anyone to use!

References:

Fuchs, Christian. Social Media: A Critical Introduction. 2nd ed., SAGE Publications, 2017.

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Blog Post #4

Q1.) In the Black Mirror episode, the system ranks the “quality” of people. How accurate is this?

A1.) I think it’s ironic that the system in the episode ranks the citizens, deciding that the people with the highest ranks are the best quality people. It seems that the best and most genuine people are the ones that are real, and not being fake, or only flattering others for a good rating. For example, the woman that picked Lacey up on the side of the road had a low rating, but was an extremely high quality person, and was willing to help someone in desperate need of it.

Q2.) In the Black Mirror episode when Lacey goes to jail, do you think she will ever be given the opportunity to recover?

A2.) Since we never truly see what happens to Lacey at the end of the episode, it’s pretty much left up to us to speculate what will become of her. I believe that eventually Lacey will be given the chance to recover, but she’ll basically have to start from the bottom, meaning she’d have restricted access to certain places, jobs, housing and amenities.

Q3.) How does target advertising effect our purchases?

A3.) Advertising on social media and the internet is focused around your resent searches and interests expressed online. In one sense, it’s sort of creepy and concerning that someone is always knowing what your looking up online. But in another sense, it could almost be helpful. As we discussed in class, if the advertisements are things similar to our interests and to what we want to buy, than that seems more helpful than anything.

Q4.) If a ranking system similar to the one in China were to be implemented in the United States, how would citizens react?

A4.) If a ranking system were to occur in the U.S., I think society would attempt to be resistant of it. Still, some would eventually incorporate themselves in it to avoid the government from taking away things like education, travel, internet access. Ultimately, it’s a scary thought to think about, the government having so much control over the lives of its citizens.

Reference:

Fuchs, Christian. Social Media: A Critical Introduction. 2nd ed., SAGE Publications, 2017.

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Blog Post #3

Q1.) Does social/digital media influence how we view the world around us?

A1.) Most definitely. If all you’re seeing on your timelines or television screens is sad and depressing stories, then you’re likely to see the world as a very dark and sad place. Social media greatly influences not only how we view and make sense of everything around us, but also how we view ourselves, and even the people we surround ourselves with.

Q2.) How do companies and business establish connections with customers or online users?

A2.) Business connect with their consumers in various ways via social media. Whether it be through polls, giveaways, contests or exclusive deals/discounts for members. Companies really work to integrate themselves into consumer culture online. Making the buyer feel as though they are apart of some decisions made by the company, or that they have a connection with a certain business allows them to influence a consumers likelihood of continuing to shop or work with that specific corporation

Q3.) How does participatory culture effect cultural diversity?

A3.) I believe the more involved you are with social media, or even with those around you, can help to encourage and support cultural diversity. Social media is a place to express yourself in whatever way you please, so why not take advantage of it and use it to show the world who you truly are. Social media allows different people to interact with other people around the world, and opens doors to learning about varying cultures and ways of life, and reassures individuals to express themselves, and their beliefs.

Q4.) Is digital labor considered exploitation?

QA.) In some cases I believe yes, but in others I think no. If an author publishes an article or blog they created on a site that mentions they will not be compensated for their work in the terms and conditions, then that is on the author of that work. Still, bloggers, writers, etc. should receive some sort of compensation, especially if the work becomes big and draws a lot of attention, thus bringing more viewers to the website as a whole. 

Reference:

Fuchs, Christian. Social Media: A Critical Introduction. 2nd ed., SAGE Publications, 2017.

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Blog Post 2

Q1.) How is all media considered social?

A.1) All media is considered social because they’re all a result of social processes. Even if an individual were to be doing something as simple as searching something online, watching a film or online shopping, it’s all considered social due to the social processes it took to put those sites or products online. Someone somewhere interacted with other individuals to make those things possible for someone else, thus the social aspect.

Q2.) How has social media blurred the lines between social life and public life?

A2.) Social media has created a place for individuals to express themselves in any way they seem fit. Still, some expose personal information to the public that shouldn’t necessarily be there. Although social media is meant for showing off whatever the users please, the line between private and public life seems to get blurred. Especially when jobs increasingly check potential employees social media accounts.

Q3.) How much privacy do we actually have on social media, especially when big data is involved?

A3.) When deleting things off of social media, it seems pretty straight forward, just hit the delete button. But with the existence of “the cloud” and rise of big data, everything “deleted” isn’t necessarily gone forever. Still, doing things like setting accounts to private are steps to take in the right direction of keeping your information to yourself, but doesn’t necessarily mean you’re hidden from the outside world.

Q4.) How is big data effecting things like user privacy and consumer culture?

A4.) Since big data basically stores everything online, everything searched online is stored somewhere in the cloud. So, they base advertisements and commercials on whatever the user may be looking at or searching. It makes you wonder how much information is actually yours, and how much is hidden from the outside world.

Reference:  Fuchs, Christian. Social Media: A Critical Introduction. 2nd ed., SAGE Publication

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Blog Post 1

Q1. In regards to the Edward Snowden incident, how much privacy on the internet and various social media sites do we have, or should we have?

A1.) According to the reading, Snowden leaked information about surveillance systems accessing personal accounts such as emails and social media accounts. It makes you wonder how much privacy you actually have, even when you have your accounts set to private. Although I don’t agree with the invasion of privacy used by the government, I believe that there should be some sort of surveillance and monitoring of online use to be sure every ones is using it correctly and safely, but not so much so to leak private, personal information.

Q2.) My second question involves when Fuchs discusses how young people tend to feel about potential future employers exploring their social media pages. So, should employers be able to have access to applicants personal pages?

A2.) I believe yes, if an individual is applying to a job that is considered respectable and professional, then the employees should be expected to present themselves that way on their pages, while still successfully expressing themselves in the process.

Q3.) How has social media changed the way we engage in face to face interaction?

A3.) People have become so comfortable and used to socializing behind a screen that it leads you to question where their communication skills lie when it comes to real life interaction. It’s to the point where some people seem to feel more comfortable and safe sending an email or text, rather than discussing something with someone in person. From personal experience, I know if I am nervous about asking someone for something important, I may just ask over text to avoid making them angry or upset to your face. Still, face to face interaction is much more valued and respectable than simply talking through a screen, and ultimately, our social skills are lacking because of it.

Q4.) The book talks about how the creator of Huffington Post came under fire for not paying her bloggers, while the company made large amounts of money. Is not paying these bloggers for their writing considered exploitation of workers?

A4.) Although the bloggers are not being paid for their pieces, Arianna Huffington argues that “bloggers work without payment for fun and to get recognition” (pg 2). Yes the bloggers aren’t being paid for their work in cash, but they are earning viewers and popularity among the users of Huffington Post. That recognition could allow them to eventually do other things with their writings, and perhaps making money after building up their followers and subscribers.

References: 

Fuchs, Christian. Social Media: A Critical Introduction. 2nd ed., SAGE Publications, 2017.