#and not have it be reduced to hashtag discourse

[dashiellqvverty]

anyway this is just the tags from my previous post about bix but i wanted to post them on their own

#i think part of my frustration is it felt LAZY#oh we want to gesture towards hope for the future (not necessarily a bad idea for the end of a show like this)#how can we do that? what if cassians girlfriend had a baby!#and its like. why bix???????#how does she feel about raising this child? has she ever wanted to be a mother?#would she have preferred to stay more active in the rebellion if she hadnt been pregnant?#we'll never fucking know#i'd almost rather have had a scene of her like talking to the baby telling a little story or something#wouldve been so fucking corny but couldve given more insight into bix herself#and not. standing in a wheat field or whatever so she. or more specifically her baby. can be a Symbol

[dynared]

I've laid into Earthspark a lot as the series progressed, particularly as it became clearer and clearer that the show was a bomb. All that being said, I'm also curious how much blame is going to be retroactively placed on the Terrans for existing and being used to push the family theme. It's also worth looking at the chance of actually seeing these characters again, even as regular Autobots. Discussion under the cut:

Let's start with Twitch, who I think has a decent chance of being seen again, but is actually sort of endemic of a lot of IDW style "we're making stories, making things too toyetic is bad" design and writing. Twitch has a lot of personality, and I think that personality may make her attractive for writers. She's also a fembot who has made a fairly positive impression with fans, rather than being a source of discourse.

The problem with Twitch is her alt mode more than anything. She's a drone. A really simple, small one, mind you, that isn't very complex. Any simpler and it would be a Happy Meal toy. While not every character needs to have a $100-$200 toy for it, even Bumblebee started to get more elaborate vehicle modes once he became a focus character in the movies with the Camaro design being far more complex than his old mini-bot figure. Still, a redesign is probably a lot easier than a rewrite of her character. So she has a good chance of appearing.

Thrash - Twitch's brother, who was reduced to something of a background character and is pretty forgettable. A bike with a sidecar is a fairly decent alt-mode but he's not someone fans will likely be clamoring for. Not entirely his fault, but he both escapes the controversy and negative opinion of some of his Terran siblings, while also not being interesting enough to garner demand for an appearance.

Hashtag - Presumably earmarked as a replacement for Blaster now that boom boxes aren't really a thing, Hashtag has been derided by the fandom as obnoxious, annoying, and looking like a cube. Also, Season 2 made her a hypocrite. She may be firmly in the Windblade zone, a fembot whose poor media outings have made her very difficult to use, except Hashtag being a kid and a cube probably isn't getting a FlameToys release ever.

Nightshade - Well, let's get this one over with. Nightshade is probably considered radioactive by Hasbro ever since this -

The non-binary owl was the subject of a Fox News report and was probably the only mainstream attention Earthspark got in the mass media. Not a great look. The funny thing is that this isn't the last non-binary character in Transformers media, as Shredhead, a character from the Skybound comics, uses they/them pronouns because they identify as a group of sparks merged together into one being (think Ermac from Mortal Kombat, who refers to themselves as "We"). And they were introduced over a year after Nightshade's controversy, meaning that any negativity Hasbro faced over the character's pronouns did not deter them from making another non-binary character.

Why does one character become a pariah and the other gets lauded? It's not about them being non-binary, but rather, in Nightshade's case, talking about being non-binary seemed to be most of their character for most people on the outside looking in.

Meanwhile, Shredhead introduces themselves as THE SWORD THAT CLEAVES EVIL.

Nightshade is radioactive, but Shredhead could easily be seen in an adaptation if they last long enough in Skybound. Presumably being introduced well, shredding Decepticons with their sword.

Kind of like that. "My name is Shredhead, THE SWORD THAT CLEAVES EVIL!" is simply a more dynamic introduction than "My name is Nightshade, my pronouns are they/them."

Jawbreaker - For a character who is often seen as meek and bullied by the other Terrans, Jawbreaker likely has the easiest route to being used again. He's a Dinobot. And there have been numerous attempts to expand the Dinobots outside of the core of Grimlock, Swoop, Slag, Sludge, and occasionally Snarl. Jawbreaker could easily fit the kid brother concept, completely divorcing him from the Terrans in favor of being a fill in for characters like Skar who never quite reached full acceptance as part of the group with the fandom. It would actually be ironic that the one the show goes out of its way to trash at times ends up with the brightest future.

So yeah, two bots with a decent chance, two bots who likely won't be used again, and one who very likely won't be used again because they have a superior counterpart.

[dreamyinart]

From Hashtag to Revolution: Tumblr and the Feminist Struggle

In the digital age, social media has become an important space for feminist discourse, where hashtag-based movements thrive. According to Habermas’s theory of public space (cited in Kruse, Norris & Flinchum 2018, pp. 62-63), an ideal public space should ensure access to information, equal participation, and freedom from institutional domination. In this context, Tumblr has emerged as a unique platform where feminist communities can connect, share, and raise awareness about gender equality. So is Tumblr an ideal public space for feminists?

Tumblr and the Digital Public Sphere

Founded in 2007, Tumblr is different from other social media platforms due to its anonymity, robust hashtag system, and reblog mechanism. This creates an open space where users can discuss sensitive issues without fear of censorship or harassment. According to Kruse et al. (2018), a true public sphere must meet three criteria:

1. Unrestricted access to information - On Tumblr, users can find a wide range of political, gender, and feminist material and discussions without being constrained by algorithms like on Facebook or Instagram.

2. Equal participation - Unlike Twitter, where posts are easily hijacked, Tumblr allows users to control what appears on their personal pages.

3. Reduced institutional control - Tumblr is less controlled by corporations or governments than other platforms.

Feminism on Tumblr

Tumblr is considered the center of the digital feminist movement. Keller (2019) claimed that “Feminism on Tumblr” describes how feminist groups on the platform use social media to fight for women’s rights, share personal experiences, and create spaces for mutual support. Hashtags like #Feminism, #MeToo, and #BodyPositive have attracted millions of posts, raising awareness about gender inequality. On Tumblr, users are free to express their feminist views in creative and powerful ways. The platform is not limited to traditional forms of feminism, but also opens up space to explore new, even revolutionary approaches, allowing people to share and express their identities.

In addition, Tumblr has played a significant role in spreading discussions about LGBTQ+ rights, gender-based violence, and societal beauty standards. According to Solomon & Kurtz-Costes (2017), as social media platforms represent hubs of community for transgender adolescents, these communities provide emotional, appraisal, and informational support that transgender youth may not otherwise be able to access. In particular, the platform has become an important space for trans women, where they can find empathy, and support, and share their experiences in their journey to self-actualization. Thanks to Tumblr’s anonymity and unique language culture, many trans women have found a community where they can be their true selves, fight for their rights, and express their identities without fear of judgment or discrimination.

Despite the presence of other social media platforms, Tumblr stands out as an important space for building and promoting feminist movements. With its anonymity and unique language culture, Tumblr continues to be a place where communities can connect, share, and express their identities freely and powerfully. Tumblr’s future in this role will depend on how the platform adapts and evolves in the rapidly changing digital landscape.

What do you think about Tumblr’s ability to continue to be an important space for social movements? Share your thoughts! 🚀

References

Keller, J. (2019). “Oh, She’s a Tumblr Feminist”: Exploring the Platform Vernacular of Girls’ Social Media Feminisms. Social Media + Society, 5(3), 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1177/2056305119867442

Kruse, L. M., Norris, D. R., & Flinchum, J. R. (2018). Social Media as a Public Sphere? Politics on Social Media. The Sociological Quarterly, 59(1), 62–84. https://doi.org/10.1080/00380253.2017.1383143

Solomon, H. E., & Kurtz-Costes, B. (2017). Media’s Influence on Perceptions of Trans Women. Sexuality Research and Social Policy, 15(1), 34–47. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13178-017-0280-2

[thanathicca]

Pathologic Fest Day 17: Notoriety (1)

Part 1 - #crystalclaraity

This belated entry for @fellowtragedian is also crossposted on AO3! and yes, this is set in my 22nd century Thanatica AU, ISMIE (imperare sibi maximum imperium est).

Warning: medical scams, internet drama, ableism, xenophobia, suicide baiting, anti-vaccine behavior

Everything in this story is fictional. Any resemblance to real people, places, or events are purely coincidental.

gemmedicine

posted July 13, 2165

you guys need to lay off of crystalclaraity’ accent guys. just because she’s russian doesn’t mean she’s a plot to undermine the us government via tocktick. get real

#crystalclaraity #crystalclaraity discourse #discourse #you USians are CRAZY #not everything revolves around y’all

120 Likes | 66 Reblogs | 18 Replies

Replies have been limited for this post.

illogical-conclusion

Do you forget that CrystalClaraity is literally scamming people by selling them rocks that “”””heal the plague””””??? She forfeited the right to not be insulted by making people disregard safety protocols just to watch her “”””perform miracles”””” holy shit!!!

6969plaguefucker6969

@\illogical-conclusion those people in her videos are probably paid actors.

illogical-conclusion

@\6969plaguefucker6969 THAT DOESN’T MAKE IT BETTER????????

gemmedicine

@\illogical-conclusion i’m just asking y’all yankees to stop pointing out her accent. it’s literally embarrassing that you still mock foreigners for speaking english in their own accents in the year of the lord 2165

illogical-conclusion

@\gemmedicine I’m not American???? LMAO???????

gemmedicine

@\illogical-conclusion sorry

~

bonked-silly-style 

posted July 19, 2165

gem/medicine literally believes in crystal healing. So unserious. How does he expect anyone with half a brain to take him seriously? xD

#discourse #crystalclaraity #crystalclaraity discourse #xDDD #gemmedicine #crystal healing doesn’t work you guys xP #drama #internet drama

250 Likes | 53 Reblogs | 11 Replies

gemmedicine

@\bonked-silly-style some alternative medicine *can* work. my russian mutual @\prodxedwithgay ordered crystalclaraity’ stuff and it actually helped her.

destieldashcondankmemes

As a Russian, I disown @prodxedwithgay WTF why would you buy from crystalclaraity. Go to the WHO website or whatever instead of using TockTick for medical information -_____________-

never-traumadump

you say it like it is, man. my mom got into the alternative medicine pipeline cuz my little sister is autistic and she doesn’t want to vaccinate her 🙄 and now she’s totally entrenched in conspiracy and we’re not even allowed otc medication anymore. i have to wear crystal necklaces to school. i really need a new phone but noooo she had to use our savings to buy a mAgIc CrYsTaL i feel like i’m going insane.

never-traumadump

like. crystalclaraity says shit like “this plague isn’t real” and like it’s “just the negative energy pooling in the world that my crystal can neutralize”. i bet she’s fully vaccinated and doesn’t even listen to her own videos.

crazy-poor-asian

@\never-traumadump you think Crystalclaraity’s thing is a bit???

mychangelingfantasy

@\crazy-poor-asian Just like a stand-up comedian, sometimes a bit can result in a career 😌

~

pandemic-news

posted August 25, 2165

CrystalClaraity, the health influencer that has accumulated 3.5 million followers on TockTick, EyeTube, Twatter, and InstantGram, has been drowning in controversy. CrystalClaraity has been selling healing crystals that allegedly protect you from the virus and reduce symptoms of the plague since the pandemic began in January 2165.

Research has found that some of the crystals sold in CrystalClaraity’s shops contain lead, asbestos, and several radioactive materials

(...)

The hashtag #KillerClaraity has been used as a campaigns for mass recalls and refunds are surfacing on several social media platforms.

Source

#crystalclaraity #pandemic #tw pandemic #cw pandemic #alternative medicine

19,874 Likes | 3,160 Reblogs | 252 Replies

vigorovsky-trash

LEAD? ASBESTOS? RADIOACTIVE SHIT?! THIS DUDE IS LITERALLY A CARTOON VILLAIN!!!!

anti-vigorovsky

@\vigorovsky-trash how does it feel to know you support child abuse? kys <3

bone---throne

I hope they go to jail for this. This is unacceptable. Innocent people are getting hurt because internet social media platforms don’t have ways to prevent these scams from happening and getting bumped by the algorithm.

wowsonormal

Isn’t Clara literally a teenager?

bone---throne

No one knows how old they are.

killerheadache-fromouterspace

Speculation of CrystalClarity’s age by u/NotaConArtist

HOW OLD IS CLARA THE CRYSTAL PEDDLER? AN ANALYSIS BY MAKEUP ARTIST

Cosplay Wig Expert Weighs In: Clara is Wearing Shitty Brand Wigs

CrystalClarity candid photos (unedited) (footage not from socials)

I SAW CRYSTALCLARITY IN MY HOMETOWN?! (NOT CLICKBAIT)

brainrotting413

@\killerheadache-fromouterspace i SWEAR IF THIS IS A RICKROLL I’M GOING TO CRAM YOUR TOENAILS INTO YOUR ASS

fuckedupandmorallyambiguous

It’s not a Rickroll.

~

bonked-silly-style

posted August 26, 2165

EAT THAT, @\gemmedicine!

#killerclaraity #crystalclaraity #discourse #gemmedicine #crystalclaraity discourse #crystal healing is stupid and anyone who thinks it works is an idiot

431 Likes | 109 Reblogs | 77 Replies

Replies have been limited for this post.

rationalhumanbeing

…imagine listening to someone with a minion porn avatar

bonked-silly-style

@\rationalhumanbeing What are you doing reading minion porn? xD Devil’s sacrament moment xDDD

~

gemmedicine

Posted August 26, 2165

some people really be using serious cases just to further drama. touch grass. if you know who i’m talking about leave them alone btw. “touch grass” applies to everyone on this hellsite

#personal #crystalclaraity discourse #crystalclaraity #discourse #oh well #i’m gonna go touch grass #maybe remake my blog #moots dm me for new user

Reblogs and replies have been disabled from this post.

[haanhhuynh]

Digital Citizenship in the Age of Social Media: Navigating the Impact on Political Engagement

In our rapidly evolving digital age, the concept of digital citizenship has become increasingly crucial, especially as social media plays a significant role in shaping the dynamics of political engagement. Digital citizenship is defined as “those who use the Internet regularly and effectively” (Mossberger, Tolbert & Mcneal 2010). A digital citizen should possess characteristics that include a comprehensive understanding of human, cultural, and societal issues related to technology, associated with the commitment to practising legal and ethical behavior (Ribble 2008).

Social media, acting as a catalyst for change, serves as a powerful tool for informed political political news (Zhuravskaya, Petrova & Enikolopov 2020). Digital citizens use quick access to information to stay in the loop about what's happening worldwide, breaking down distance barriers and creating connections. It's important to use this ability responsibly, especially when keeping up with political news.

However, challenges arise in the form of algorithmic echo chambers that reinforce biases, threatening the principles of digital citizenship. Responsible online engagement demands that citizens break free from these bubbles, actively seeking diverse perspectives, and participating in open dialogues to reduce disagreement. Additionally, according to Papakyriakopoulos, Serrano and Hegelich (2020), people who participate in online discussions, expressing their opinions, have the power to shape how others, both active and passive users, understand political information. They can also directly impact the actions of political figures.

On the other hand, while certain studies suggest that using social media for news has a positive impact on democracy, encouraging political engagement, other research indicates a negative influence as it contributes to the dissemination of misinformation (Valenzuela et al. 2019). For this reason, digital citizens must be vigilant in critically evaluating information, fact-checking, and resisting the potential manipulation that threatens the integrity of democratic discourse.

Despite these challenges, social media remains a powerful tool for political mobilization, requiring digital citizens to engage responsibly. Grassroots movements, fueled by hashtag activism, exemplify the positive impact of digital citizenship in mobilizing individuals worldwide to advocate for change. The dissemination of information to a broad audience empowers citizens, fostering active engagement in shaping the narratives within the political sphere.

In conclusion, the multifaceted impact of social media on political engagement underscores the need for a strong foundation in digital citizenship. Being responsible digital citizens involves navigating the digital landscape with a critical eye, actively participating in diverse dialogues, and leveraging the power of social media to contribute positively to the democratic discourse of our times.

Reference list

Mossberger, K, Tolbert, CJ & Mcneal, RS 2010, Digital citizenship : the internet, society, and participation, Mit Press, Cambridge, Mass.

Papakyriakopoulos, O, Serrano, JCM & Hegelich, S 2020, ‘Political communication on social media: A tale of hyperactive users and bias in recommender systems’, Online Social Networks and Media, vol. 15, p. 100058.

Ribble, M 2008, Passport to Digital Citizenship, viewed <https://elem.hcdsb.org/stbernadette/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2019/05/Passport-to-Digital-Citizenship-article.pdf>.

Valenzuela, S, Halpern, D, Katz, JE & Miranda, JP 2019, ‘The Paradox of Participation Versus Misinformation: Social Media, Political Engagement, and the Spread of Misinformation’, Digital Journalism, vol. 7, no. 6, pp. 802–823.

Zhuravskaya, E, Petrova, M & Enikolopov, R 2020, ‘Political effects of the internet and social media’, Annual Review of Economics, vol. 12, no. 1, pp. 415–438.

[freakiwildi]

WEEK 10: Should Social Media Governance Be in the Hands of Governments or Private Corporations?

The Digital Battleground: Who Holds the Reins?

When social media first took root, the term "social media governance" was not clearly defined. But over time, scholars have shaped its meaning. Kietzmann et al. (2011, p. 249) describe it as:

"Strategies need to be developed by firms for monitoring, understanding, and responding to different social media activities and interactions, which requires clear governance mechanisms to mitigate risks and maximize benefits."

Think of it as a digital filtration system designed to keep the online world clean while allowing diverse viewpoints to flourish (Pithan & Closs, 2022). But here is where things get complicated.

The Power Shift: When Politics Invaded Social Media

In the early days, private corporations ran the show. They set the rules, decided what content stayed or got removed, and shaped the algorithms that controlled what we saw. But then, 2008 happened.

That year, Barack Obama became the first political figure to run a groundbreaking campaign through social media(Bennett, 2016, p. 70). Suddenly, politics was not just on TV or in newspapers, it was in Facebook feeds, Twitter threads, and YouTube comment sections.

As political discourse expanded, social media transformed from a mere communication platform into a public sphere for political exchange. People flooded platforms with opinions, sharing posts, statuses, texts, and hashtags. But with this rise in political engagement came a new dilemma: What happens when diverse individual thoughts multiply and clash? And more critically, what if this space falls under government control?

Private Corporations vs. Government Control: The Purity Test

If social media is a digital Wild West, then who should play sheriff?

1. Private Corporations: Profit Over Ethics?

Big tech companies, like Meta and X (formerly Twitter), claim they moderate content to prevent misinformation, hate speech, and harmful rhetoric. But their algorithms also prioritize engagement over accuracy. After all, controversy sells.

And here’s the problem: Who decides what is “misinformation” and what is just an unpopular opinion? Corporate governance can mean biased censorship, where decisions are driven by profit, political interests, or sheer convenience (Cihon, Schuett & Baum 2021).

2. Government Oversight: Security or Suppression?

On the flip side, if governments take control, there is a new risk—censorship under the guise of protection.

DeNardis (2014) argues that government control could lead to stricter content regulation, especially on political opinions that don’t align with the ruling powers. If governments gain the ability to remove content at will, the digital town square could become a ghost town of silenced voices.

In some cases, governments try to strike a balance. For example, in Scotland, the social media policy doesn’t restrict opinions outright but encourages disclaimers (Scottish Government, 2017), such as:

“The views expressed here are my own and do not necessarily reflect the views of any other groups of people.” 

A simple line like that could act as a digital seatbelt, reducing the spread of false information while still allowing freedom of expression. However, under different roofs can not allow it to be applied practically and properly as it was.

Vietnam’s Social Media Dilemma: The "Colour Revolution" Case

In Vietnam, the social media governance debate is even more complex. Over the past year, the country has witnessed what scholars call a "Colour Revolution"- a term used to describe:

"Perceived foreign-backed efforts to destabilize the state through pro-democracy activism, social media movements, and protests." (Vu & Le, 2022)

Many of these movements began and thrived on social media, especially digital communities. It was not just political activists - it was students, scholars, and normal people. Platforms became spaces where opinions spread like wildfire, fueling tensions that couldn’t be ignored. Therefore, a question mark is left with no answer. 

Who is the chosen one?

Neither option is perfect. Private corporations often prioritize profit over ethics, while government regulation risks turning into a tool for censorship. To keep social media a space for open dialogue, not manipulation, it should start from the ground up rather from the top down

References: Bennett, WL 2016, ‘News The Politics of Illusion’, press.uchicago.edu, 10th edn, p. 70, viewed <https://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/chicago/N/bo22723661.html>.

Cihon, P, Schuett, J & Baum, SD 2021, ‘Corporate Governance of Artificial Intelligence in the Public Interest’, Information, vol. 12, no. 7, p. 275, viewed <https://www.mdpi.com/2078-2489/12/7/275>.

DeNardis, L 2014, ‘The Global War for Internet Governance’, Google Books, viewed 23 March 2025, <https://books.google.com.vn/books?hl=en&lr=&id=jfxfAgAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PA1&dq=Comparing+between+the+government+and+private+business+as+a+controller>.

Kietzmann, JH, Hermkens, K, McCarthy, IP & Silvestre, BS 2011, ‘Social media? Get serious! Understanding the functional building blocks of social media’, Business Horizons, vol. 54, no. 3, p. 249, viewed <https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0007681311000061>.

Pithan, LH & Closs, LQ 2022, ‘The invisible management of visibility-driven work: Governance by social media platforms | RAE - Revista de Administracao de Empresas’, Periodicos.fgv.br, viewed 24 March 2025, <https://periodicos.fgv.br/rae/article/view/91924/86457>.

Scottish Government 2017, ‘Social media policy - gov.scot’, www.gov.scot, viewed <https://www.gov.scot/publications/social-media-policy/>.

Vu, AN & Le, BQ 2022, ‘The politics of civil society narratives in contestation between liberalism and nationalism in authoritarian Vietnam’, Contemporary Politics, pp. 1–25.

[unfaustian]

📌📌📌

you can call me Faust! i'm a queer transmasc non-binary catboy (he/him, mostly), but in kink, my gender and pronouns are pretty fluid (he/she/it depending on the mood/scene)

this is my horny on main space!! i sometimes make NSFW art, fics and other musings, both furry and non-fur

Links

WIP section - to be updated

i cross-post short form stuff on bsky and twitter

my tumblr art tag is more suggestive or censored - for my uncensored art, check my bsky hashtag

here you can find info and content about my OCs and/or fursonas ❤

here you can find my masterpost of blog-specific tags, art and long form content

Guidelines

this is a NSFW blog - any minors who try to interact will be blocked.

i don't do RP or play - if you DM me about doing RP with you or exchanging pics i will generally block and ignore. sending asks or DMing me with stuff inspired by my content, general kink-related conversations, short-form stuff, or things along those lines, i might be more willing to engage with, but no promises

a non-exhaustive list of my main kinks and limits are listed below the cut. i do my best to tag things, but i may miss things!

My work is purely fantasy! I do not necessarily condone the kinks I enjoy and feature in my work being performed/acted upon IRL without being part of a scene. Discourse and pearl clutching will be blocked.

Main kinks

Pet play (mainly kitten play)

Slave/master dynamics

Praise (often with degradation mixed in)

CNC, including:

Rape play

Free use

"Chikan"/molestation

Blackmail and coercion

Intox play and aphrodisiacs

Hypnosis and brainwashing

Corruption and mind break

Forced breeding/impregnation

Somnophilia

Age play, CGL (aka DDLG), age gaps, underage, grooming - I do NOT condone IRL pedophilia or abuse!

Degradation and humiliation, including:

Dumbification, bimbofication and insulting my intelligence

Objectification

Misogyny (e.g. femininity as "lesser" than men, being reduced to a sex object, etc.)

Slut shaming

Forced exhibitionism

Small penis humiliation and chastity cages

Bullying

Forced feminisation and orientation play, including:

FTMTF detransitioning and misgendering

Sissification

Dyke and ace breaking/conversion

Incest

T4T incest <3

Mainly uncles, mummies and sibling play (either played straight or involving FTMTF kink)

Teratophilia/monster fucking, including:

Tentacles

Knotting

Ovipositors

Ghosts and similar spirits

"Feral" characters, as in characters that look like real life animals, but have enough sapience to consent - I do NOT condone IRL zoophilia!

Breeding and pregnancy

Cum play

Hucow

Scent and musk play

Cheating, NTR and cuckolding

Size difference

Bear physiques and body hair (mainly snail/happy trails)

Bondage

Exhibitionism and public sex

Cock worship, ball worship, deep throating

Rimming

Edging, gooning and orgasm control

Marks, hickies, body writing, tattoos, cigarette burns

Breath play and choking

Impact play

TNWO (Trans New World Order)

"Orange"/"Yellow" kinks

Watersports

Being peed on, especially while wearing clothes

Being peed inside of during penetration

Drinking pee, usually while being forced into the top's genitals

Overstimulation

Fisting

Limits

Farting and scat

Emetophilia/vomit

Race play

Politics play

Diet control

Bambi files

[hamiiu29]

The Real Power of Hashtags Activism: Attention, Action, or Just a Trend?

Digital activism has revolutionized social movements, turning hashtags into powerful tools for mobilization and collective action. A single post can spark global conversations. But let’s be real: when the buzz fades, does real change follow, or do we just end up scrolling past the next viral moment? Hashtags might stir the conversation, but are they sparking action, or just making noise? Let's unpack the digital hype.

Hashtags as the Heartbeat of Digital Movements

Digital activism harnesses the power of online networks to amplify voices, mobilize communities, and challenge societal norms. Instead of relying solely on traditional advocacy methods, activists now use digital platforms to drive conversations and spark action.

Within this landscape, hashtags have emerged as more than just metadata—they are rallying points that bring individuals together under a shared cause. This practice, known as hashtag activism, enables users to engage in political and social discourse by tagging their posts with a common label. Beyond simply organizing conversations, hashtags serve as catalysts for counter-publics, amplifying marginalized voices and challenging dominant narratives in mainstream discourse (Jackson et al., 2020; Jackson & Foucault Welles, 2015). Social media platforms further fuel this by making virality easier—through hashtag features, character limits, and algorithm-driven reach—allowing digital activism to break physical and social barriers (Leung & Lee, 2014; Penney & Dadas, 2014).

Some successful and most influential movements in the past decade have been fueled by hashtags such as #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter :

✅ #MeToo (2017) ignited a global movement, with over 19 million Twitter mentions averaging 55,319 per day (Anderson & Toor, 2018). Beyond its online virality, it also drove real-world impact, leading to workplace reforms and legal action against sexual harassment.

However, not all hashtag-driven campaigns achieve lasting change. #Kony2012 – once the fastest-growing viral campaign failed to create lasting change due to misinformation and a lack of sustained offline action. Despite widespread online support, the campaign struggled to translate digital momentum into meaningful real-world impact (Carroll, 2012).

This raises a critical question: Why do some hashtag movements create structural change while others fade into digital oblivion?

The Double-Edged Sword of Hashtag Activism

In the context of hashtag activism, the movement relies heavily on the collective voices of Twitter users, where posts are shared and amplified across a wide audience. This broad reach can lead to a disconnection between the different groups involved in the movement, as not all of them share the same perspective or values. When posts go viral, they can easily be seen by people outside the intended audience, including those with opposing views (Lampinen, 2020, p. 18).

Hashtag activism can be powerful in drawing global attention, but it can also unintentionally reinforce limiting ideas about those it tries to help (Dadas, 2017). A good example is the #BringBackOurGirls campaign, which, despite its wide reach, frames women as valuable only in relation to others, like family. As Loken (2014) points out, the phrase “our sisters and daughters deserve better” implies that missing girls matter only because they are someone’s daughters or sisters. This way of thinking risks reducing them to property, instead of seeing them as independent individuals who deserve freedom on their own.

Beyond the Hashtag: What Actually Makes Digital Activism Effective?

While hashtag activism has gained immense popularity, it is important to recognize that technology, including hashtags, is not a magical solution for social change. Haunss (2015) argues that technology is just one tool within a larger communication toolkit used by activists. Jenkins (2014) further supports the idea that instead of viewing hashtag activism as a complete revolution or a meaningless form of expression, we should consider it as a mechanism for participation in broader social movements.

To create lasting impact, movements must leverage both online momentum and real-world actions such as protests, lobbying, and legal advocacy. In this sense, digital activism becomes truly effective when it is paired with offline efforts that turn attention into tangible, systemic change.

REFERENCES:

Anderson, M., & Toor, S. (2018, October 11). How social media users have discussed sexual harassment since #MeToo went viral. Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2018/10/11/how-social-media-users-have-discussed-sexual-harassment-since-metoo-went-viral/

Bestvater, S., Gelles-Watnick, R., Smith, A., Odabaş, M., & Anderson, M. (2023, June 29). 1. Ten years of #BlackLivesMatter on Twitter. Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2023/06/29/ten-years-of-blacklivesmatter-on-twitter/

Carroll, R. (2012, April 21). Kony 2012 Cover the Night fails to move from the internet to the streets. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2012/apr/21/kony-2012-campaign-uganda-warlord

Dadas, C. (2017). Hashtag activism: The promise and risk of “attention.” Social Writing/Social Media: Publics, Presentations, Pedagogies, 24.

Haunss, S. (2015). Promise and practice in studies of social media and movements. Critical Perspectives on Social Media and Protest: Between Control and Emancipation, 13–31.

Jackson, S. J., Bailey, M., & Welles, B. F. (2020). # HashtagActivism: Networks of race and gender justice. Mit Press. https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=zoHRDwAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PR7&dq=%23Hashtag+activism:+Networks+of+race+and+gender+justice&ots=JILqnBkdAq&sig=DDSo6QEqvw4dkV1CRUMYyOgPm3o

Jackson, S. J., & Foucault Welles, B. (2015). Hijacking# myNYPD: Social media dissent and networked counterpublics. Journal of Communication, 65(6), 932–952.

Jenkins, H. (2014). Rethinking ‘Rethinking Convergence/Culture.’ Cultural Studies, 28(2), 267–297. https://doi.org/10.1080/09502386.2013.801579

Lampinen, A. (2020). Tweeting for change: How Twitter users practice hashtag activism through# BlackLivesMatter and# MeToo [Master’s Thesis, A. Lampinen]. https://oulurepo.oulu.fi/handle/10024/15514

Leung, D. K. K., & Lee, F. L. F. (2014). Cultivating an Active Online Counterpublic: Examining Usage and Political Impact of Internet Alternative Media. The International Journal of Press/Politics, 19(3), 340–359. https://doi.org/10.1177/1940161214530787

Loken, M. (2014). #BringBackOurGirls and the Invisibility of Imperialism. Feminist Media Studies, 14(6), 1100–1101. https://doi.org/10.1080/14680777.2014.975442

Penney, J., & Dadas, C. (2014). (Re)Tweeting in the service of protest: Digital composition and circulation in the Occupy Wall Street movement. New Media & Society, 16(1), 74–90. https://doi.org/10.1177/1461444813479593

[moonnieee]

Tumblr and the Digital Public Sphere

Week 3 Digital Community: Tumblr Case Study

Introduction:

Tumblr and Its Role in the Public Sphere

Tumblr, a microblog that was launched in 2007, has long been recognized as a site of creative freedom, subcultural communities, and cultural dialogue. Unlike other social media platforms such as Facebook or Instagram, Tumblr promotes a more anonymous, user-oriented space with a wide range of content allowed, which users can engage in dialogue without the institutional policy of real names. This organizational framework closely adheres to that of the public sphere, in which users can exchange ideas openly without the interference of institutions.

Understanding the Public Sphere and Its Digital Evolution

The public sphere, according to Jürgen Habermas 1989, is a public arena where "private people come together as a public" to engage in reasoned debate and exchange of critical knowledge, ultimately leading to political and societal change (Calhoun, 1992). The distinguishing characteristics of a public sphere include open access to information, equal opportunity to join in, and immunity from economic or political coercion.

In the digital culture of the present, the Internet, and more so social media, satisfies most of these public sphere criteria. Many writers argue that online platforms facilitate the exchange of ideas with fewer barriers to participation (Kruse et al., 2018). In theory, the decentralized nature of the Internet enables users to disseminate information and participate in discourse without institutional interference (Van Dijck, 2012). However, in reality, concerns regarding algorithmic bias, surveillance, and exclusion based on socioeconomic factors challenge the Internet’s potential as a truly open public sphere.

Why Tumblr Is a Good Digital Public Sphere?

Tumblr’s structure and affordances make it a particularly strong example of a good digital public sphere. Some highlight features that reinforce its status from other platforms include:

Anonymity: Unlike Facebook or Instagram, which require real names, Tumblr allows pseudonyms, making it a safer space for marginalized communities, such as LGBTQ+ users, to engage freely.

Hashtagging & Community Building: Tumblr was among the earliest platforms to utilize hashtags as a tool of discussion and community formation, enabling users to move through conversations without having to be stringent about content curation.

Relatively Public Nature: Users do not need to follow one another to view content, allowing for broader participation.

Less Surveillance: Unlike other websites, Tumblr does not focus on time stamps or active status indicators, reducing constant monitoring of user activity.

Nevertheless, defining it as a good public sphere does not mean it's perfect. In 2018, Tumblr decided to ban NSFW (Not Safe for Work) content. The action was controversial, with many users, especially those engaged in #bodypositive content, complaining that the policy was unjustly affecting their freedom of expression (Pilipets & Paasonen, 2020). Tumblr's automated filtering system mistakenly labelled innocent content, including fully clothed selfies and animal photos, as explicit (Jackson, 2018). The error frustrated users and lowered engagement among younger users.

Although the rationale for banning explicit content—preventing child pornography, for example—the execution of the policy demonstrated the challenges of automated moderation. Tumblr's use of censorship by AI with poor accuracy resulted in a loss of trust among its members. 

References

Calhoun, C. (1992). Habermas and the Public Sphere edited by Craig Calhoun. https://calhoun.faculty.asu.edu/sites/default/files/publications/articles/habermas_and_the_public_sphere.pdf

Jackson, G. (2018, December 4). Tumblr’s New Algorithm Thinks Garfield Is Explicit Content. Kotaku. https://kotaku.com/tumblrs-new-algorithm-thinks-garfield-is-explicit-conte-1830854912

Kruse, L. M., Norris, D. R., & Flinchum, J. R. (2018). Social Media as a Public Sphere? Politics on Social Media. The Sociological Quarterly, 59(1), 62–84. https://doi.org/10.1080/00380253.2017.1383143

Pilipets, E., & Paasonen, S. (2020). Nipples, memes, and algorithmic failure: NSFW critique of Tumblr censorship. New Media & Society, 24(6), 146144482097928. https://doi.org/10.1177/1461444820979280

Van Dijck, J. (2012). Facebook as a Tool for Producing Sociality and Connectivity. Television & New Media, 13(2), 160–176. https://doi.org/10.1177/1527476411415291

[chippiyumyum]

Week 3: DIGITAL COMMUNITY: TUMBLR CASE STUDY

1. What is Tumblr?

Tumblr, launched by David Karp in 2007, is a microblogging and social networking platform that allows users to share multimedia content such as text, images, GIFs, and videos. Its highly customizable interface and emphasis on community engagement make it a unique space for creative expression. Unlike traditional blogs, Tumblr encourages short-form content, enabling users to post frequent updates with minimal effort (Per Christensson, 2014; Garuda, 2024).

2. Why is Tumblr a good representation of the digital public sphere?

The platform aligns with Jürgen Habermas' concept of the public sphere, which is a space where individuals freely discuss and debate societal issues, contributing to public opinion and democratic processes (Low, 2015). In the digital age, social media platforms like Tumblr have become extensions of this public sphere, providing spaces for discourse and activism. Tumblr, in particular, facilitates open expression and fosters a sense of community, making it a modern representation of the public sphere. However, research suggests that digital platforms may not always encourage true public discourse. Kruse, Norris, and Flinchum (2018) argue that social media users often avoid political discussions due to fear of online harassment, engage primarily with like-minded individuals, and view these platforms as spaces for entertainment rather than serious debate.

One movement that thrived on Tumblr was body positivity, which has its origins in the fat acceptance movement of the 1960s, influenced by second-wave feminism (Afful & Ricciardelli, 2015). The hashtag #bodypositive gained significant traction on Tumblr, serving as a space where individuals, particularly fat people and their allies, could share experiences of acceptance and empowerment. Through this movement, users aimed to combat fat stigma by normalizing diverse body types and challenging societal beauty standards. Tumblr played a key role in shaping the digital landscape of body positivity, helping the movement spread across other platforms like Instagram.

Despite its early significance in digital activism and public discourse, Tumblr’s influence has waned in recent years, largely due to its 2018 policy change restricting NSFW content. This decision led to a significant user exodus, particularly among communities that relied on Tumblr’s openness for self-expression. Many users migrated to platforms like Instagram and TikTok, diminishing Tumblr’s relevance, especially among younger audiences. While Tumblr was once a vital space for fostering discussions on body positivity and public issues, shifting policies and changing user behavior have reduced its role in today’s digital public sphere.

REFERENCES

Anne Reif, Insa Miller & Monika Taddicken (2022) “Love the Skin You‘re In”: An Analysis of Women’s Self-Presentation and User Reactions to Selfies Using the Tumblr Hashtag #bodypositive, Mass Communication and Society, DOI: 10.1080/15205436.2022.2138442

Afful, A. A., & Ricciardelli, R. (2015). Shaping the online fat acceptance movement: talking about body image and beauty standards. Journal of Gender Studies, 24(4), 453–472. https://doi.org/10.1080/09589236.2015.1028523

Garuda. (2024, December 21). What Is Tumblr: History, Interesting Facts, Functions, And Strategies. Garuda Website. https://www.garuda.website/en/what-is-tumblr/

Kruse, L. M., Norris, D. R., & Flinchum, J. R. (2018). Social Media as a Public Sphere? Politics on Social Media. The Sociological Quarterly, 59(1), 62–84. https://doi.org/10.1080/00380253.2017.1383143

Low, S. (2015). Public Space and the Public Sphere: The Legacy of Neil Smith. Antipode, 49, 153–170. https://doi.org/10.1111/anti.12189Per Christensson. (2014, March 29). Tumblr. Techterms.com; TechTerms.com. https://techterms.com/definition/tumblr

[you-must-be-held-accountable]

The Praxis of Accountability: Social Media as a Tool for Collective Justice

Accountability in the digital age is no longer optional; it is a social imperative. Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have evolved into arenas where public behavior meets collective scrutiny, fostering an environment that demands transparency and responsibility.

At its core, holding individuals or institutions accountable on social media serves two functions: it amplifies marginalized voices and enforces public consequences for unethical actions. The phenomenon, colloquially referred to as "calling out" or "canceling," operates as a decentralized system of justice. For example, when global fashion brands exploit labor in developing nations, users with no institutional power wield hashtags like #PayUp to demand ethical practices, often resulting in policy changes or public apologies.

Similarly, influencers who spread misinformation face swift backlash, with their harmful narratives countered by fact-checked rebuttals. Consider the response to high-profile health misinformation during the COVID-19 pandemic: public pressure not only curbed the spread but compelled some offenders to retract their statements.

The power of collective accountability is not without critique. Detractors argue that it can veer into harassment, reducing nuanced discourse to mob justice. However, when wielded responsibly, it aligns public opinion with ethical standards, proving that ordinary individuals can influence extraordinary change.

Social media accountability is imperfect but necessary. In a world where traditional institutions often falter, the crowd becomes the arbiter of justice, ensuring that those in positions of privilege are not above reproach.

[jewy-gum]

🌐 Week Four: Queer Visibility and Reality TV in the Social Media Age 🎬

Welcome to Week Four of our deep dive into digital communities and the ever-evolving landscape of Reality TV and Queer Identities. As reality TV remains one of the most pervasive forms of modern media, its role in representing LGBTQ+ communities has grown considerably. However, as we explore in this week's readings, the impact of reality TV on queer identities is far from straightforward. This post will examine how reality TV, coupled with the power of social media, shapes and sometimes distorts the visibility of LGBTQ+ identities.

🌈 Queer Representation on Reality TV: Progress or Pitfall?

Reality TV has served as an essential platform for LGBTQ+ visibility, bringing queer identities into mainstream media. Early shows like The Real World: San Francisco (1994), featuring Pedro Zamora, played a monumental role in normalizing conversations about queerness and HIV/AIDS (Lovelock 2019). Zamora’s presence marked a cultural shift, illustrating that LGBTQ+ people were not just side characters but critical contributors to the narratives of reality TV. Such representations have helped pave the way for broader queer visibility, including on shows like RuPaul’s Drag Race, which has become a global phenomenon.

However, with visibility comes complexity. Lovelock (2019) argues that reality TV often reduces queer identities to particular “scripts” or “archetypes,” reinforcing stereotypes rather than offering nuanced portrayals of LGBTQ+ lives. This creates a paradox: while visibility is increased, the diversity and complexity of queer experiences are often reduced to marketable caricatures. The portrayal of gay men as flamboyant, emotional, or overly sexualized, for instance, limits public understanding of the queer experience, turning it into entertainment rather than authentic representation.

📺 The Impact of Social Media on Queer Visibility

The rise of social media has had a profound effect on how reality TV is consumed and discussed, particularly in relation to queer identities. Platforms like Twitter allow fans to engage in real-time discussions during episodes, creating a dynamic space where viewers actively participate in the creation of queer discourses. As Deller (2019) notes, hashtags such as #DragRace not only amplifies queer representation but also gives viewers a platform to critique, celebrate, and extend the show's narratives long after the episodes air. Social media brings liveness to reality TV, making participation feel immediate and communal.

However, this increased engagement comes with its own set of challenges. Social media often reduces complex discussions into soundbites, encouraging oversimplified views of queerness. Memes, while humorous, can further reinforce the archetypes already established by reality TV. For example, a meme of RuPaul saying "Shantay, you stay!" may seem harmless, but it also continues to frame queer identities through a narrow lens of camp, entertainment, and spectacle (Deller 2019). The commodification of queer identities becomes even more evident when these memes go viral, circulating within and beyond LGBTQ+ communities.

🤳 Queer Performances & Authenticity: The Reality TV Paradox

Reality TV thrives on the concept of authenticity, yet it paradoxically constructs its own versions of what it means to be “real” in queer life. Shows like RuPaul’s Drag Race demand participants to be true to themselves while performing hyper-stylized versions of queer culture. As Banet-Weiser (2012) points out, reality TV’s obsession with authenticity often translates into a commodification of the self, where participants must brand their identities to succeed.

This commercialization of queerness extends beyond the screen, as reality TV stars increasingly use social media platforms to maintain their visibility and extend their fame. According to Deller (2019), reality show participants like drag queens from Drag Race have leveraged platforms like Instagram to build personal brands, turning their queer identities into profitable ventures. This presents a double-edged sword: while these platforms offer agency and visibility, they also tie success to the marketability of one’s queer identity, reinforcing capitalist structures even within queer communities (Banet-Weiser 2012).

🏳️‍🌈 Critiques of Queer Representation in Reality TV

While reality TV has opened the door to LGBTQ+ representation, it has not been without criticism. Shows like Fire Island have sparked backlash for their portrayal of gay men, reinforcing stereotypes of hedonism and emotional volatility (Lovelock 2019). Critics argue that these depictions do more harm than good by perpetuating narrow representations of queer life. As noted by Scott (2017), such portrayals often fail to capture the diversity of queer experiences, reducing LGBTQ+ individuals to one-dimensional caricatures. This criticism extends to broader discussions of reality TV as a space where only certain types of queerness - those deemed marketable - are represented.

This split image contrasts two eras of queer visibility in reality TV.

Left Side: A black-and-white drawing of Pedro Zamora from The Real World: San Francisco features a 1990s TV set and a red AIDS awareness ribbon, symbolizing his pioneering activism for HIV/AIDS awareness and LGBTQ+ rights. The San Francisco cityscape in the background emphasizes the historical and serious nature of queer representation during this time, where visibility was rooted in activism and advocacy.

Right Side: The colorful and vibrant side features RuPaul from RuPaul’s Drag Race, surrounded by neon lights, makeup brushes, and the iconic phrase “Shantay, you stay!” with rainbow flags and dollar signs in the background. This side illustrates the evolution of queer visibility into modern mainstream entertainment, highlighting both the celebration and commercialization of queer identities in today’s media.

Together, the image illustrates the shift from activism-driven representation to market-driven entertainment, showcasing both the progress and challenges in queer visibility on television.

References:

Banet-Weiser, S 2012, Authentic™: The Politics of Ambivalence in a Brand Culture, New York University Press.

Deller, R 2019, Reality TV in the Age of Social Media, Emerald Publishing Limited.

Lovelock, M 2019, Reality TV and Queer Identities, Palgrave Macmillan, <https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-030-14215-5>.  Scott, HA 2017, 'This Isn’t What It’s Like to Be a Gay Man’, The Advocate, <https://www.advocate.com>.

[updatenews519]

Title: Trump and Musk Discuss Assassination Attempt and Deportations During Glitchy X Chat

Summary: In a highly anticipated interview on X, formerly known as Twitter, Donald Trump detailed his recent assassination attempt and his plans for large-scale deportations, while also discussing his vision for a second term. The conversation, hosted by Elon Musk, was plagued by technical difficulties and highlighted the evolving relationship between the two influential figures. Despite the glitches, the session underscored the shifting U.S. political landscape and Trump's return to the social media platform after his ban was lifted.

Keywords: Donald Trump, Elon Musk, X (formerly Twitter), assassination attempt, deportations, 2024 Election, social media, politics, technical glitches, U.S. Presidency, Trump campaign

Hashtags: #TrumpMusk #2024Election #SocialMedia #ImmigrationPolicy #USPolitics

Trump and Musk Discuss Assassination Attempt and Deportations During Glitchy X Chat

Overview

Donald Trump made a dramatic return to X, the platform previously known as Twitter, to discuss his recent assassination attempt and plans for mass deportations if re-elected. The conversation with X’s owner, Elon Musk, was meant to connect with millions of voters but was marred by significant technical issues.

Key Discussion Points

Assassination Attempt:

Trump described in vivid detail how he survived a recent assassination attempt, attributing his survival to a last-minute movement. Musk praised Trump’s resilience, highlighting it as a crucial trait for national security.

Immigration Plans:

Trump reiterated his commitment to initiating the largest deportation effort in U.S. history, aiming to expel millions of illegal immigrants. He also spoke about his broader agenda for reducing government regulations.

Technical Glitches:

The interview faced a rocky start, with over 878,000 users struggling to connect, and Trump’s voice was often muffled. Musk attributed the delays to a "massive attack" on the platform, reminiscent of earlier technical failures during other high-profile events.

Trump and Musk’s Relationship

The conversation underscored the evolving dynamics between Trump and Musk, who have shifted from adversaries to allies. Musk, once a critic of Trump’s presidency, now supports him, even endorsing him after the assassination attempt. Their discussion also included the possibility of Musk joining Trump’s administration to lead a government efficiency initiative.

Political and Social Impact

Platform Strategy:

Trump’s return to X marks a significant moment as he reconnects with his 88 million followers, a stark contrast to his smaller audience on Truth Social. This move illustrates the platform’s importance in shaping political discourse, despite the challenges faced during the interview.

Global Reactions:

The interview caught the attention of international figures, including EU Commissioner Thierry Breton, who warned Musk about potential "amplification of harmful content," highlighting the global implications of the conversation.

Conclusion

Despite the technical issues, Trump’s interview on X showcased his resilience and ambition for a potential second term. The conversation with Musk, while lacking new policy revelations, emphasized the shifting political landscape and the importance of social media in modern campaigns.

[tshirtfashiontrend]

Hashtag team scotty shirt

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[cqattmu]

internet vs information: module 5

Disinformation

This is a TikTok that is spreading disinformation- flat out false information. Noah Schnapp, one of the Stranger Things actors, is currently in hot water over some comments he made regarding the Israel-Palestine war going on. Since this, Schnapp has had many fake comments and posts made about him and his coworkers, one of which being this lie that the rest of the cast unfollowed him due to his recent controversy. This never happened, and therefore is an example of disinformation. (fabricated content)

Misinformation

“using a mask incorrectly can actually make it more dangerous.”

This, in a narrow sense, is true: using anything incorrectly can be dangerous. The broader implication, however, that wearing masks is somehow “dangerous” flies in the face of new evidence complied by Yale researchers showing that wearing face masks reduces the spread of COVID-19 and saves lives.

This article lists the dangers of misinformation in relation to Coivid-19. A great source of information the past few years, many people have taken the truth of a situation and twisted it so as to scare people and fear monger. In the above quote directly pulled from the article, we see an example of people taking a true fact and twisting it so that the idea becomes negative, and the real intention/meaning is lost. Here, the centre for disease control in Australia released a statement advising proper wearing of face masks, but some people took his statement and because of the way it was worded, used a true statement to create a lie and say wearing face masks is dangerous rather than the improper use being dangerous.

Malinformation

Here is yet another TikTok, except this time being an example of malformation. The video depicts an account making fun of a trans woman on a podcast, where she was also being made the punch line of a joke. The podcast hosts criticized her for her appearance, being trans and her confidence. This particular video is unfortunately one of many harassing this woman- depicted is her introducing herself but instead of the original audio the creator put a VoiceOver of Optimus prime speaking. This, in combination with the hashtags, is clearly a hateful comment on her appearance. The ridicule she faces based on her appearance and being trans is hate speech and therefore malinformation.

[howstheday]

Week 9: Do toxic fans in some online spaces (e.g. Twitter) make it difficult to become or identify as a fan?

The presence of toxic fan action has become an ongoing issue in the enormous environment of online fandoms, particularly on networks like Twitter. The combination of social experiences and social media platforms has a significant impact on how people gain or identify as fans. The study analyses the complex interaction between toxic fandoms, social media affordances, and the influence on fan identity. We'll utilize the case study of a prominent media series and the obstacles it brings to fan interaction on Twitter to dive into this complicated terrain.

first digging into the case study, it's necessary to answer the broader question: How are our social experiences in online fandoms related to social media platforms and their affordances? Firstly, social media platforms provide specific advantages that impact our relationships on the internet. Platforms like Twitter enable real-time participation, leading to dynamic and constantly growing communities. These same affordances, however, add to the difficulties of toxic fandoms, where rapid and sometimes unedited comments become the norm (Cammaerts 2015). Moving on, our fan experiences are tightly tied to the dynamics of social media platforms. Direct involvement with creators, real-time conversation, and hashtag movements may all improve the fan experience. Toxic actions, on the other hand, might alienate others, making it impossible for them to truly embrace or identify as fans (Philips 2023).

Consider the situation of a popular media asset with an enormous Twitter following. The franchise has an enormous fan base because to its diverse characters and interesting plotlines. However, toxic actions have emerged within these followers, posing difficulties for people trying to become or identify as fans (Baggs 2018). There are a few affordances shaping fan experiences in these situations, such as real time discussions, the immediacy of Twitter allows fans to participate in real-time debates about the franchise, expressing hypotheses and opinions. While this builds a sense of community, it also speeds up the spread of toxic conduct since negative reactions can pick up traction rapidly (Twitter 2014). Through mentions and answers, fans may directly connect with creators. While this develops a tighter connection, it also offers the door to harassment when fans disagree with artistic decisions, creating a toxic environment. (Eckstein 2021).

Secondly, challenges to fan identity, toxic fans frequently engage in gatekeeping, doubting the authenticity of other fans based on incorrect criteria. This creates an environment in which newbies or those with opposing viewpoints may feel unwelcome, finding it difficult for them to properly identify as fans (Bastos 2013). Moving on, the rapid and intense nature of Twitter conversations may develop to a cancel culture in which supporters are disregarded for voicing unfavourable viewpoints. This restricts open discourse and makes it difficult for fans to voice different points of view without fear of negative consequences (Brown 2020).

Thirdly, we could navigate the terrain and addressing toxic fandoms by establish social norms and active influencing to reduce toxic behaviour and make the fan experience safer like what TikTok is establishing right now (TikTok 2023). Moving on, encourage an inclusive fan culture that welcomes new members and appreciates different points of view without resorting to gatekeeping (Bastos 2013). Lastly, creators may utilize their platforms to highlight negative behaviour and establish guidelines for appropriate fan interactions (Baggs 2018).

In the age of social media, our fan experiences are inextricably linked to the aspects of platforms like Twitter. While new platforms provide incomparable opportunity for participation, they also magnify the problems caused by toxic fandoms. The case study demonstrates how toxic conduct can prevent people from truly embracing or identifying as fans, emphasizing the importance of proactive actions to build a better fan culture. To get through an environment of toxic fandoms, fans, creators, and platform administrators must work together to establish spots where various opinions are valued, and toxicity is actively addressed.

Cammaerts, B 2015, “Technologies of Self-Mediation: Affordances and Constraints of Social Media for Protest Movements”, ResearchGates, 15 May, viewed 20 November 2023, <https://www.researchgate.net/publication/303426193_Technologies_of_Self-Mediation_Affordances_and_Constraints_of_Social_Media_for_Protest_Movements>.

Philips, RJ 2023, “Building Genuine Connections: The Role of Technology in Cultivating Fan Engagement”, Forbes, 16 June, viewed 20 November 2023, <https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2023/06/16/building-genuine-connections-the-role-of-technology-in-cultivating-fan-engagement/?sh=3ff75d681612>.

Baggs, M 2018, “Toxic fandom: Online bullying in the name of your favourite stars”, BBC, 1 August, viewed 20 November 2023, <https://www.bbc.com/news/newsbeat-44950274>.

Twitter, 2014, “What fuels a Tweet’s engagement?”, 10 March, viewed 20 November 2023, <https://blog.twitter.com/en_us/a/2014/what-fuels-a-tweets-engagement>.

Eckstein, M 2021, “Social Media Engagement: Why it Matters and How to Do it Well”, Buffer, 7 January, viewed 20 November 2023, <https://buffer.com/library/social-media-engagement/>.

Bastos, M 2013, “Gatekeeping Twitter: Message diffusion in political hashtags”, ResearchGate, 13 March, viewed 20 November 2023, <https://www.researchgate.net/publication/258170981_Gatekeeping_Twitter_Message_diffusion_in_political_hashtags>.

Brown, D 2020, “Twitter's cancel culture: A force for good or a digital witchhunt? The answer is complicated.”, USA Today, 17 June, 20 November 2023, <https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2020/07/17/has-twitters-cancel-culture-gone-too-far/5445804002/>.

TikTok 2023, “Community guildlines”, 13 March, viewed 20 November 2023, <https://www.tiktok.com/community-guidelines/en/>.