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WEEK 10: DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP AND CONFLICT: SOCIAL MEDIA GOVERNANCE

Digital citizenship encompasses the responsible and ethical use of technology, emphasizing respect, accountability, and adherence to established online norms (Contributor, 2019). Social media governance, which includes policies, regulations, and best practices, plays a critical role in managing online behavior and mitigating the negative consequences of digital interactions. The intersection between digital citizenship and social media governance is particularly significant in addressing online harassment and fostering a more responsible digital environment.

Research indicates that online harassment is a pervasive issue, particularly among university students. Haslop, O’Rourke, and Southern (2021) found that nearly a quarter of university students in the UK have either experienced or suspected experiencing online harassment. Similarly, Thompson (2023) highlights the increasing prevalence of "online hostility" in Australia and its detrimental impact on individuals' well-being. Common forms of harassment include unauthorized access to personal devices, abusive commentary on social media posts, and unsolicited sexual innuendos (Haslop, O’Rourke & Southern, 2021). These findings underscore the urgent need for more effective social media governance and digital literacy education to combat online abuse.

Online harassment disproportionately affects women and marginalized groups, exacerbating psychological, emotional, and even physiological distress (Haslop, O’Rourke & Southern, 2021). Additionally, Thompson (2023) argues that online hostility not only inflicts harm on individuals but also reinforces systemic inequalities, further marginalizing vulnerable populations. This phenomenon contributes to a "gendered digital divide," discouraging women from fully participating in digital spaces (Jane, 2018). The prevalence of gendered harassment highlights the necessity for structural interventions, including stronger regulatory frameworks and educational programs promoting digital citizenship.

A recurring challenge in addressing online harassment is the discrepancy between public perceptions and actual experiences. The stereotype of the "snowflake generation," which portrays younger individuals as overly sensitive, is contradicted by research suggesting that students often normalize and tolerate online harassment rather than actively seeking redress (Haslop, O’Rourke & Southern, 2021). Despite the widespread nature of online abuse, many individuals are reluctant to report incidents unless they incite violence, with less severe forms of harassment—such as politically motivated abusive comments—often going unreported. This reluctance underscores the need for institutional and platform-driven mechanisms that encourage reporting and ensure adequate protections for users.

A 2023 UN report on online violence against women and girls further highlights the failure of social media platforms to effectively combat online hate. The report emphasizes the need for closer collaboration among technology companies, governments, and civil society organizations to create comprehensive strategies for preventing and addressing online abuse (UN Women, 2023). Without such concerted efforts, online harassment will continue to pose significant threats to digital citizenship, discouraging inclusive participation and jeopardizing the safety of vulnerable users.

In conclusion, online harassment is a pervasive and multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach to address its root causes and consequences. Effective responses must involve further research, educational initiatives to promote responsible digital engagement, and the enforcement of stricter policies by social media platforms. Additionally, fostering changes in societal attitudes and norms surrounding online behavior is essential in creating a safer and more equitable digital space. By integrating digital citizenship with robust social media governance, policymakers, educators, and platform operators can work collectively to mitigate the harmful impacts of online harassment and promote a more inclusive and respectful online environment

REFERENCES

Daniel Thompson, J. (2023). New journalism research will help mitigate the harms of online hostility. [online] Freilich Project for the Study of Bigotry. Available at: https://freilich.anu.edu.au/news-events/blog/new-journalism-research-will-help-mitigate-harms-online-hostility.

Haslop, C., O’Rourke, F. and Southern, R. (2021). #NoSnowflakes: The toleration of harassment and an emergent gender-related digital divide, in a UK student online culture. Convergence: The International Journal of Research into New Media Technologies, 27(5), pp.1418–1438. doi:https://doi.org/10.1177/1354856521989270.

Jane, E. (2018). Gendered cyberhate- a new digital divide? [online] Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/328474307_Gendered_cyberhate-_a_new_digital_divide.

UN Women (2023). TECHNOLOGY-FACILITATED VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN: TAKING STOCK OF EVIDENCE AND DATA COLLECTION joint programme on violence against women data +. [online] Available at: https://www.unwomen.org/sites/default/files/2023-04/Technology-facilitated-violence-against-women-Taking-stock-of-evidence-and-data-collection-en.pdf.

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WEEK 9: GAMING COMMUNITIES, SOCIAL GAMING AND LIVE STREAMING

The expansion of gaming communities, social gaming, and live streaming has transformed video games into an interactive and communal experience. Gaming communities, which serve as virtual spaces where players connect over shared interests, thrive on platforms such as Twitch, Discord, and Reddit (Ong, 2022). Social gaming, characterized by multiplayer experiences that emphasize collaboration or competition, has further strengthened these connections. Meanwhile, live streaming has redefined gaming culture by merging entertainment with real-time interaction, allowing audiences to engage with streamers and fellow viewers in dynamic ways (Yeelight, 2024).

Keogh (2020) argues that the gaming industry is more than just an economic sector; it represents a complex cultural, technological, and social space. This is evident in cities like Melbourne, where major gaming studios coexist with co-working spaces for startups, artist collectives, students, independent developers, and government-supported agencies. International gaming events further highlight the interplay between local and global gaming cultures.

Live streaming platforms, particularly Twitch, have extended beyond gaming to encompass diverse content such as creative work, music, cooking, and real-life streaming (“IRL”) (Taylor, 2018). These platforms provide an interactive media experience in which audiences engage with streamers in real time through chat functions, fostering strong online communities. Streaming has also become a powerful marketing tool, with game developers incorporating it into their promotional strategies and, in some cases, using audience feedback to inform game design. As a result, streaming represents a convergence of traditional broadcasting elements and the interactive nature of digital media, illustrating the evolving relationship between gaming and contemporary media culture.

Beyond entertainment, video games function as cultural, political, and social spaces. Taylor (2018) emphasizes that gaming environments offer opportunities for engagement with broader societal issues, including inclusivity, identity representation, and mental health awareness. By facilitating connections among players, streamers, and developers, the gaming industry has contributed to a more socially conscious digital landscape. Gaming communities serve as platforms for discourse, activism, and the exploration of cultural narratives, further solidifying video games as a meaningful part of modern digital culture.

The rise of gaming communities and streaming platforms has reshaped gaming into an immersive and interactive cultural phenomenon. No longer confined to passive entertainment, gaming now serves as a social and technological space where users engage in meaningful interactions. The integration of real-time media, collaborative gaming experiences, and diverse content creation has expanded gaming’s cultural significance, making it a platform for communication, creativity, and social awareness. As gaming continues to evolve, its role as both an entertainment medium and a cultural force will only deepen.

REFERENCES

Keogh, B. (2020). The Melbourne indie game scenes. Routledge eBooks, 13, pp.209–222. doi:https://doi.org/10.4324/9780367336219-18.

Ong, M. (2022). Game streaming: A novel gateway to community-building - TNGlobal. [online] TNGlobal. Available at: https://technode.global/2022/09/12/game-streaming-a-novel-gateway-to-community-building/ [Accessed 15 Mar. 2025].

Taylor, T.L. (2018). Watch Me Play: Twitch and the Rise of Game Live Streaming.Yeelight (2024). The Rise of the Streamer: How Streaming Platforms Have Transformed Gaming. [online] YEELIGHT. Available at: https://store.yeelight.com/blogs/gamer-tips/streaming-changes-the-game-how-twitch-is-revolutionizing-gaming-culture.

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WEEK 8: DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP AND SOFTWARE LITERACY: INSTAGRAM FILTERS

Snapchat initially emerged as a platform designed to capture raw, unedited moments. However, the introduction of augmented reality (AR) filters in 2015 significantly transformed its purpose, making it a pioneer in bringing AR technology into mainstream social media. These interactive filters quickly gained popularity, shifting Snapchat’s focus from authenticity to curated beauty. Once regarded as the “anti-Photoshop” of social media, Snapchat has since evolved into a tool that reinforces conventional beauty norms, influencing how users present themselves online.

Similarly, Instagram introduced face filters in May 2017 as part of its Stories feature, drawing inspiration from Snapchat’s AR filters (Instagram, 2017). These filters allowed users to add various effects to their selfies, including animal ears, crowns, and makeup enhancements. The use of cosmetics to enhance physical appearance has been a long-standing practice, yet digital filters now offer the ability to achieve flawless skin, sculpted features, and perfect contours instantly. While filters may appear to be harmless and entertaining, they contribute to unrealistic beauty standards, heighten self-consciousness, and blur the distinction between self-expression and commercial influence.

Research indicates that many beauty filters modify facial features in a way that aligns with Western beauty ideals, often slimming the face and nose, enlarging the eyes and lips, and brightening the skin (Barker, 2020). This transformation has led users to critically reflect on the self-image that these filters promote. Emily Arata, an editor at Elite Daily, notes that filters function as a form of “airbrushing,” providing users with a sleek and fashionable appearance that can replace the need for traditional makeup. Meanwhile, Rettberg (2014) emphasizes that filters are not merely technological tools but also cultural artifacts that shape self-perception. As Instagram played a pivotal role in popularizing these digital enhancements, concerns have arisen regarding their broader implications.

For some users, the seamless transformation of their facial features into an idealized version of beauty is unsettling, as it creates an inability to appear “unattractive” even when they attempt to do so (Barker, 2020). These effects are particularly troubling for people of color, who have reported that beauty filters often lighten their skin, reinforcing exclusionary beauty standards. The persistent exposure to digitally altered self-images has been linked to negative psychological consequences. Baker highlights that many individuals experience increased insecurity about their natural appearance, contributing to a phenomenon known as “digitized dysmorphia.” As a result, plastic surgeons have observed a rise in patients seeking cosmetic procedures to replicate their filtered selfies, further demonstrating the profound impact of AR filters on contemporary beauty perceptions

The widespread use of AR filters on social media has significantly influenced beauty standards and self-perception. As social media continues to shape societal perceptions of beauty, it is crucial to foster digital literacy, encourage transparency in photo editing, and promote diverse, unfiltered representations of self-image. By critically engaging with filters and their implications, users can navigate social media in a way that prioritizes authenticity, self-acceptance, and mental well-being.

REFERENCES

Barker, J. (2020). Making-up on mobile: The pretty filters and ugly implications of snapchat. Fashion, Style & Popular Culture, [online] 7(2), pp.207–221. doi:https://doi.org/10.1386/fspc_00015_1.

Instagram (2017). Introducing Face Filters & More on Instagram | Instagram Blog. [online] about.instagram.com. Available at: https://about.instagram.com/blog/announcements/introducing-face-filters-and-more-on-instagram.

Rettberg, J.W. (2014). Filtered Reality. Seeing Ourselves Through Technology, pp.20–32. doi:https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137476661_2.

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WEEK 7: DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP AND HEALTH EDUCATION: BODY MODIFICATION ON VISUAL SOCIAL MEDIA

Body modification encompasses a broad spectrum of deliberate physical alterations, ranging from tattoos and piercings to more extreme procedures such as scarification, branding, and implantations (Lewis, 2019). These practices have existed across cultures for centuries, serving aesthetic, cultural, and symbolic purposes. In contemporary society, social media has significantly influenced body modification trends by both popularizing and normalizing various forms of self-expression, while also fostering greater awareness of diverse body representations (Owens et al., 2023).

Social media plays a dual role in shaping perceptions of body modification and body image, contributing to both positive and negative outcomes. Platforms such as Instagram and TikTok amplify prevailing beauty standards through curated, often edited imagery, reinforcing societal pressures to conform to these ideals. This has led to a rise in cosmetic procedures, tattoos, and other modifications as individuals seek to align their appearance with digital aesthetics (King University, 2024). The "visual megaphone" effect of social media ensures that idealized body images reach vast audiences, further normalizing certain aesthetic enhancements.

However, the constant emphasis on physical appearance on social media is closely linked to body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), a psychological condition characterized by obsessive concerns over perceived physical flaws. Individuals affected by BDD may engage in repeated cosmetic procedures, excessive grooming, or compulsive mirror-checking in an attempt to correct these perceived imperfections (King University, 2024). Adolescents and young adults, who are particularly active on visual platforms, are especially vulnerable to these influences. Prolonged exposure to unrealistic beauty standards fosters body dissatisfaction, heightening anxiety, self-criticism, and, in severe cases, depression. This dissatisfaction can lead to maladaptive behaviors such as excessive photo filtering, social withdrawal, or extreme body modification practices (King University, 2024).

Algorithmic biases further exacerbate these issues by prioritizing highly sexualized images, particularly of women, to maximize engagement and profit (Carah & Dobson, 2016). The "creative economy" model reinforces systemic inequalities, as algorithms selectively amplify specific body types while limiting the visibility of more diverse content. Duffy and Meisner (2022) argue that these algorithms, which adapt based on user interactions, contribute to the normalization of hypersexualized aesthetics, shaping platform-wide beauty standards.

Given these challenges, addressing the mental health risks associated with social media exposure is imperative. Krishnan-Jha (2022) highlights the concept of "social media dysmorphia," where unattainable beauty ideals fuel increased demand for cosmetic procedures. Integrating health education with digital literacy can mitigate these effects by promoting awareness of photo editing practices and encouraging responsible online engagement. Policies such as mandatory disclaimers on edited images, as implemented in France, can help users distinguish between digitally altered appearances and reality, reducing harmful self-comparisons.

In conclusion, fostering a digital culture that prioritizes transparency, critical media literacy, and mental health awareness is essential. By integrating digital citizenship with health education, individuals can make more informed decisions about body modification, thereby cultivating a safer and more inclusive online environment.

REFERENCES

Carah, N. and Dobson, A. (2016). Algorithmic hotness: Young women’s ‘promotion’ and ‘reconnaissance’ work via social media body images. Social Media + Society, 2(4), pp.1–10. doi:https://doi.org/10.1177/2056305116672885.

Duffy, B.E. and Meisner, C. (2022). Platform Governance at the margins: Social Media Creators’ Experiences with Algorithmic (in)visibility. Media, Culture & Society, [online] 45(2), p.016344372211119. doi:https://doi.org/10.1177/01634437221111923.

King University (2024). The link between social media and body image. [online] King University Online. Available at: https://online.king.edu/news/social-media-and-body-image/.

Krishnan-Jha, A. (2022). Social Media Dysmorphia and the Dangers of Hyper-Realistic Photo Retouching Software. [online] Viterbi Conversations in Ethics. Available at: https://vce.usc.edu/volume-6-issue-2/social-media-dysmorphia-and-the-dangers-of-hyper-realistic-photo-retouching-software/.

Lewis, R. (2019). Body modifications and mutilations. In: Encyclopædia Britannica. [online] Available at: https://www.britannica.com/science/body-modifications-and-mutilations.Owens, R., Filoromo, S.J., Landgraf, L.A., Lynn, C.D. and Smetana, M.R.A. (2023). Deviance as an historical artefact: a scoping review of psychological studies of body modification. Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, [online] 10(1), pp.1–10. doi:https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-023-01511-6.

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Week 6: DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP CASE STUDY: SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCERS AND THE SLOW FASHION MOVEMENT

Fast fashion has reshaped the fashion industry by enabling rapid, cost-effective production of new designs. However, this model has severe environmental and social consequences, including excessive resource consumption, pollution, and unethical labor practices (Brewer, 2019). Despite growing awareness, regulatory measures to promote sustainability remain inadequate. In contrast, the sustainable fashion movement advocates for ethical production, durable products, and responsible consumption, shifting industry values from speed and disposability to quality and longevity (Domingos, Vale, & Faria, 2022).

Brewer (2019) highlights that the fashion industry is one of the most polluting sectors, with cotton production requiring up to 20,000 liters of water per kilogram and the textile industry contributing 17–20% of global industrial water pollution. Additionally, clothing waste is a critical issue, with 11.9 million tons discarded in the U.S. in 2015, of which 8.2 million tons ended up in landfills. Reports of major brands destroying unsold merchandise further raise ethical concerns. These alarming figures underscore the urgent need for more sustainable practices within the industry.

26 million tons of clothing end up in China’s landfills each year, propelled by fast fashion (TIAN MACLEOD JI, 2024)

The sustainable fashion movement presents an alternative by promoting ethical manufacturing, slower production cycles, and environmentally responsible materials. Brewer (2019) argues that this shift enhances corporate accountability, while Domingos, Vale, and Faria (2022) emphasize that changing consumer perceptions is crucial in driving sustainability. As awareness grows, more consumers are seeking alternatives to fast fashion, encouraging brands to adopt ethical and eco-friendly practices.

Social media plays a pivotal role in spreading awareness and shaping consumer behavior (Ausat, 2023). Influencers, in particular, have significant power to educate audiences on sustainable fashion by sharing content about ethical brands, sustainable materials, and conscious consumption. Their collaborations with sustainable fashion brands can enhance visibility, promote responsible shopping habits, and encourage audiences to invest in durable, high-quality clothing rather than fast fashion.

However, challenges remain, such as the risk of “greenwashing,” where brands falsely claim sustainability for marketing purposes. Additionally, some influencers may focus more on aesthetics than ethical principles, diluting the movement’s impact. To ensure meaningful change, transparency and accountability are essential in both influencer endorsements and brand practices.

In conclusion, social media influencers serve as key advocates for sustainable fashion, using their platforms to drive awareness and influence purchasing decisions. By promoting responsible consumption, they contribute to reducing the environmental and ethical harms of fast fashion (Brewer, 2019).

REFERENCES

Ausat, A.M.A. (2023). The Role of Social Media in Shaping Public Opinion and Its Influence on Economic Decisions. [online] ResearchGate. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/374125694_The_Role_of_Social_Media_in_Shaping_Public_Opinion_and_Its_Influence_on_Economic_Decisions.

Brewer, M.K. (2019). Slow Fashion in a Fast Fashion World: Promoting Sustainability and Responsibility. Laws, 8(4), p.24. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/laws8040024.

Domingos, M., Vale, V.T. and Faria, S. (2022). Slow Fashion Consumer Behavior: a Literature Review. Sustainability, [online] 14(5), p.2860. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/su14052860.TIAN MACLEOD JI (2024). 26 million tons of clothing end up in China’s landfills each year, propelled by fast fashion. [online] The Seattle Times. Available at: https://www.seattletimes.com/business/chinas-landfills-brim-with-textile-waste-as-fast-fashion-reigns-and-recycling-takes-a-back-seat/.

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Week 5: WHAT IS DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP? HASHTAG PUBLICS, POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT AND ACTIVISM

Digital citizenship refers to the responsible and ethical use of technology and the internet, encompassing the skills, knowledge, and behaviors needed to navigate the digital world safely and effectively (Zook, 2023). It involves using digital tools to communicate, access information, and participate in society while adhering to legal and ethical standards (Frederick, 2023).

From “Digital Transformation - Education”:

In the modern era, digital citizenship is closely linked to digital transformation in education, as the integration of digital technologies—particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI)—has significantly reshaped teaching and learning. This transformation enhances access to educational resources, promotes digital literacy, and fosters innovation to improve learning outcomes and prepare students for a technology-driven world (Advancing Education through a Human Rights-Based Digital Transformation - Education - Www.coe.int, 2025). However, ensuring that digital transformation aligns with human rights principles is essential to maintaining inclusive, equitable, and empowering learning environments. The Education 2030 Strategy supports governments in rethinking pedagogical methods, redesigning digital learning spaces, and promoting participatory governance in education systems.

Discussions on digital citizenship highlight various interpretations of the concept. Some definitions focus primarily on ethics and online safety, while others adopt a multidimensional perspective that includes digital skills, awareness, and political engagement (Choi, 2016). In the context of participatory democracy, digital technologies and social media platforms provide individuals with opportunities to express their opinions, take part in collective action, and challenge societal inequalities (Moonsun Choi & Dean Cristol, 2021). However, for these technologies to truly empower citizens, digital literacy must go beyond technical skills and emphasize critical thinking and responsible engagement in online spaces. Effective digital citizenship education should incorporate intersectionality—recognizing how factors like gender, race, and socio-economic background influence digital access and participation—while promoting an awareness of the political and social implications of digital interactions (Choi, 2016).

Furthermore, digital transformation in education must balance technological advancements with human rights protections. A human rights-based approach ensures that digital tools are used to strengthen democracy, promote freedom of expression, and uphold the rule of law (Council of Europe, 2022). Without proper regulation and ethical frameworks, digital technologies could reinforce inequalities rather than reduce them. Therefore, governments, educators, and policymakers must prioritize equitable access to digital education and safeguard learners' rights in online spaces.

In summary, digital citizenship is a complex and evolving concept that requires a combination of technological skills, ethical awareness, and civic engagement. As digital transformation continues to reshape education and society, efforts must be made to ensure that digital tools are used responsibly and inclusively. Effective digital citizenship education should not only equip individuals with technical skills but also empower them to engage in digital spaces critically and ethically, fostering a more inclusive and democratic digital world.

REFERENCES

Choi, M. (2016). A concept analysis of digital citizenship for democratic citizenship education in the internet age. Theory & Research in Social Education, 44(4), 565–607. https://doi.org/10.1080/ 00933104.2016.1210549

Advancing Education through a Human Rights-based Digital Transformation - Education - www.coe.int. (2025). Education. https://www.coe.int/en/web/education/-/advancing-education-through-a-human-rights-based-digital-transformation

Frederick, C. (2023). What is digital citizenship and why it is important - Ruul. Ruul.io. https://ruul.io/blog/what-is-digital-citizenship-and-why-it-is-important

Zook, C. (2023). What is digital citizenship & how do you teach it? Www.icevonline.com. https://www.icevonline.com/blog/what-is-digital-citizenship

Council of Europe (2022) Digital citizenship education handbook, Strasbourg France. 

Moonsun Choi & Dean Cristol (2021) Digital citizenship with

intersectionality lens: Towards participatory democracy driven digital citizenship education, Theory Into Practice

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Week 4: DIGITAL COMMUNITY AND FANDOM: REALITY TV CASE STUDY

Korean variety shows have captivated audiences worldwide with their unique formats, engaging content, and charismatic hosts. These shows, which range from competitive games and travel adventures to talk shows and hidden camera pranks, offer a diverse entertainment experience that appeals to viewers across different cultures. One of the most notable examples is Running Man, a long-running reality-variety show that has significantly shaped both audience engagement and the Korean media industry (The Charm of Korean Variety Shows: A Global Phenomenon - The Korean in Me, 2024). Through its mix of comedy, thrilling challenges, and celebrity guests, the show has built a dedicated global fanbase, strengthening Korea's cultural influence and reshaping media strategies to fit the digital age.

Audience Engagement and Social Media

A major factor behind Running Man’s success is its integration with social media, which enhances audience participation and interaction. Viewers actively engage in discussions about the show through platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram using official hashtags such as #RunningMan and #런닝맨 (Deller, Ruth A, 2019). This interaction fosters a "virtual community" where fans worldwide can share their thoughts on episodes, cast members, and challenges in real-time. Although the show is not broadcast live, these discussions create an experience similar to live television, as viewers connect and react together, making the content more immersive. Deller (2019) highlights that the accessibility and popularity of social media platforms make it easier for fans to follow and contribute to Running Man-related conversations without having to navigate multiple forums or blogs. This reflects a broader shift in media consumption, where audiences expect a more interactive and participatory viewing experience.

Reality TV's Influence on the Internet

Beyond audience engagement, Running Man has influenced digital content creation, particularly in the way people present themselves online. The show's reality TV techniques, such as video diary-style confessions, have shaped modern digital formats like vlogs and social media stories, where individuals speak directly to the camera (Deller, Ruth A, 2019). These techniques create a sense of intimacy and authenticity, encouraging social media users to adopt a more personal, engaging style in their content. Running Man's influence extends beyond just entertainment, as it has contributed to the evolution of digital storytelling and self-representation in the internet era.

Additionally, Running Man has played a significant role in popularizing Korean culture internationally. By featuring various locations, customs, and traditions throughout its episodes, the show serves as a gateway for global audiences to experience and appreciate Korean culture. As Stewart (2020) notes, Running Man exemplifies how reality TV can leverage social media to expand its reach, build strong fan communities, and maintain long-term audience engagement. This combination of entertainment, cultural representation, and digital integration has made the show a model for modern reality television.

However, despite its success, Running Man and other Korean variety shows face challenges in maintaining their global influence. Changes in digital consumption habits and competition from other content platforms continue to shape the landscape of entertainment. Nevertheless, Running Man's legacy in the Korean media industry remains strong, proving how reality TV, when combined with social media, can transform audience engagement and redefine the way entertainment is experienced in the digital age.

REFERENCES

Deller, R. A. (2019). Reality television : the television phenomenon that changed the world. Emerald Publishing.

Stewart, Mark (2020) ‘Live Tweeting, Reality TV and the Nation’   International journal of cultural studies.

The Charm of Korean Variety Shows: A Global Phenomenon - The Korean in Me. (2024, June 19). The Korean in Me. https://thekoreaninme.com/blogs/korean-entertainment/the-charm-of-korean-variety-shows-a-global-phenomenon/

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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