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WEEK 10: Digital Citizenship and Conflict: Social Media Governance

In the landscape of communities, conflict emerges as a pivotal focal point, encapsulating power struggles over resources, speech, platforms, and commercial interests. It is no different for social media platforms. As we delve into the multifaceted realm of conflict within digital spaces, online harassment is a prominent issue.

Conflict and Harassment in Digital Spaces

“Online harassment is defined as threats or other offensive unwanted behaviors targeted directly at others through new technology channels (e.g. Internet, text messaging) or posted online for others to see that is likely to cause them harm, unintentionally or otherwise.” - (Haslop, O’Rourke & Southern 2021)

Online harassment can manifest in various ways, including disseminating harmful gossip, sending aggressive private messages, and sharing personal content without consent, which may include intimate imagery (Haslop, O’Rourke & Southern 2021). It often targets marginalized groups and is perpetuated through coordinated networks, as exemplified by the Gamergate controversy (Wells et al. 2023). Researchers have underscored the disproportionate impact of online harassment on women and gender non-conforming individuals (UN Women 2023), highlighting the urgency for effective intervention strategies.

Mitigating Online Harassment

As issues like this arise, social media governance navigates the complex landscape of internet regulation, balancing the interests of commercial entities, public sectors, industry bodies, and state actors. From macro-level international laws to micro-level platform moderation, governance mechanisms shape the dynamics of conflict and influence online behavior.

Social media governance refers to the regulatory mechanisms governing internet and social media platforms (Linke & Zerfass 2013).

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Addressing online harassment requires a comprehensive approach encompassing legal, social, and corporate initiatives. Legal remedies, such as the Online Safety Act 2021 in Australia, provide avenues for redress and protection against serious online abuse. In terms of individual actions, women are adopting the vocabulary and methods of the digital sphere to uncover instances of online sexual harassment and foster a form of resistance that is both analytical, humorous, and engaging (Vitis & Gilmour 2016). Nevertheless, it still remains imperative for social media corporations to prioritize content moderation and maintain ethical standards by engaging in community-driven initiatives to effectively safeguard vulnerable individuals from harassment.

Reference list

edCircuit 2022, ‘Digital Citizenship’, edCircuit, viewed February 2024, <https://edcircuit.com/digital-citizenship-in-k-20-schools/#:~:text=A%20digital%20citizen%20refers%20to>.

Haslop, C, O’Rourke, F & 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, vol. 27, no. 5, pp. 1418–1438.

Linke, A & Zerfass, A 2013, ‘Social media governance: regulatory frameworks for successful online communications’, Journal of Communication Management, vol. 17, no. 3, pp. 270–286.

UN Women 2023, ‘Creating safe digital spaces free of trolls, doxing, and hate speech’, UN Women, viewed March 2023, <https://www.unwomen.org/en/news-stories/explainer/2023/11/creating-safe-digital-spaces-free-of-trolls-doxing-and-hate-speech#:~:text=Women%2C%20girls%2C%20and%20gender%2D>.

Vitis, L & Gilmour, F 2016, ‘Dick pics on blast: A woman’s resistance to online sexual harassment using humour, art and Instagram’, Crime, Media, Culture: An International Journal, vol. 13, no. 3, pp. 335–355.

Wells, G, Romhanyi, A, Reitman, JG, Gardner, R, Squire, K & Steinkuehler, C 2023, ‘Right-Wing Extremism in Mainstream Games: A Review of the Literature’, Games and Culture, viewed March 2024, <https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/15554120231167214>.

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WEEK 9: Exploring Gaming Communities, Social Gaming, and Live Streaming

“In recent decades, the gaming industry has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a niche hobby into a global powerhouse that spans across various platforms and engages millions of players worldwide.” - (Agarwal 2023)

Bernard Suits (1978) defines a game as "the voluntary attempt to overcome unnecessary obstacles." This succinct yet profound definition encapsulates the essence of gaming, highlighting the role of rules, challenges, and voluntary participation.

A Brief Gaming History

Navigating through the annals of gaming history proves to be a complex endeavor, marked by the evolution of technology and social dynamics. From the humble beginnings of arcade games to the advent of online multiplayer experiences, gaming has been deeply intertwined with the advancement of networked computing technologies. Moreover, the significance of spectatorship in gaming cannot be overstated, shaping both the culture and practices within the gaming community.

The Evolution of Gaming Culture

Examining the prevalent cultural perceptions of gamers reveals a predominantly white or East Asian, young, middle-class, and male demographic. This demographic skew has contributed to a masculine-dominated gaming culture, wherein certain individuals are more readily accepted into gaming communities based on perceived identity markers (Williams et al. 2009).

In the gaming industry, gaming communities serve as vibrant social ecosystems, comprising interconnected smaller communities wherein players congregate based on shared interests, skills, and knowledge (Gandolfi, Ferdig & Soyturk 2021). As Video games are increasingly becoming social and multifaceted (Egenfeldt-Nielsen, Smith & Tosca 2024), these communities foster a sense of camaraderie and competition, providing avenues for players to showcase their expertise and engage in collaborative endeavors.

“...the 1970s and 1980s— played a crucial role in shaping the trajectory of social gaming. The era was marked by the boom of coin-operated arcade games that encouraged competition among players and cultivated a sense of community.” - (Rehj 2023)

The proliferation of social games has revolutionized the gaming landscape, leveraging players' existing social networks to facilitate gameplay. Meanwhile, gaming platforms, ranging from consoles to streaming services, offer diverse avenues for distribution, consumption, and communication within the gaming sphere.

“As per a detailed survey conducted by Grand View Research, the global social gaming industry was appraised at a staggering USD 17.4 billion in 2019. The market is anticipated to inflate at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of an impressive 19.3% between 2020 and 2027. This explosive ascension is a testament to the widespread acceptance and formidable impact of social gaming.” - (Rehj 2023)

The rise of game streaming platforms such as Twitch, YouTube Gaming, and Facebook Gaming has ushered in a new era of gaming engagement. These platforms not only provide a space for players to broadcast their gameplay but also foster vibrant communities centered around individual streamers and their content. In addition to that, competitive gaming, epitomized by the phenomenon of esports, has emerged as a colossal industry, closely intertwined with online streaming platforms (Tang et al. 2023). Additionally, modding—a practice wherein players modify existing games—fosters passionate communities dedicated to enhancing and expanding the gaming experience.

“Beyond language, there are many other creative fan practices, such as modding [...], the creation of walkthroughs, the writing of fan fiction, and so forth.” - (Egenfeldt-Nielsen, Smith & Tosca 2024)

Drawing upon Henry Jenkins' concept of "knowledge communities," we recognize the dynamic and fluid nature of gaming affiliations, wherein individuals coalesce around common intellectual pursuits and emotional investments (Jenkins 2006, p. 137). These communities serve as hubs for the exchange of knowledge, ideas, and creative contributions, shaping the ever-evolving landscape of gaming.

The more we explore the nature of gaming communities, social gaming, and live streaming, the more we discover the rich tapestry of experiences and interactions within the gaming ecosystem. From the humble origins of arcade cabinets to the global phenomenon of esports, gaming continues to captivate and unite individuals across diverse backgrounds and interests.

Reference list

Agarwal, M 2023, ‘The Evolution and Impact of the Gaming Industry: A Comprehensive Overview’, www.linkedin.com, viewed March 2024, <https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/evolution-impact-gaming-industry-comprehensive-overview/>.

Egenfeldt-Nielsen, S, Smith, JH & Tosca, SP 2024, Understanding Video Games, Taylor & Francis.

Gandolfi, E, Ferdig, RE & Soyturk, I 2021, ‘Exploring the learning potential of online gaming communities: An application of the Game Communities of Inquiry Scale’, New Media & Society, vol. 25, no. 6, p. 146144482110271.

Jenkins, H 2006, Fans, bloggers, and gamers : exploring participatory culture, New York University Press, New York, p. 137.

Rehj 2023, ‘Social Gaming Unleashed: Understanding Its Concept, Benefits, and Leading Platforms’, AOK Marketing, viewed March 2024, <https://aokmarketing.com/social-gaming-unleashed-understanding-its-concept-benefits-and-leading-platforms/>.

Suits, B 1978, ‘The Grasshopper’, University of Toronto Press eBooks, Broadview Press.

Tang, D, Sum, RK, Li, M, Ma, R, Chung, P & Ho, RW 2023, ‘What is esports? A systematic scoping review and concept analysis of esports’, Heliyon, vol. 9, no. 12, p. e23248, viewed <https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844023104567#bib1>.

Williams, D, Martins, N, Consalvo, M & Ivory, JD 2009, ‘The virtual census: representations of gender, race and age in video games’, New Media & Society, vol. 11, no. 5, pp. 815–834.

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WEEK 8: Digital Citizenship and Software literacy | Instagram Filters

“What happens when the fashionable beauty ideal - typically considered unattainable - becomes instantly attainable for the masses with a mere tap of a touch screen?” - (Barker 2020)

Augmented Reality (AR) filters are becoming an prominent aspect in contemporary digital culture, shaping how individuals present themselves online and interact with others.

Evolution of Augmented Reality

AR technology, defined as the overlay of virtual objects onto the real world, has roots dating back to the 1960s (Temitope 2023). However, its widespread adoption and popularity surged with the advent of smartphones, culminating in exponential growth following the release of platforms like Snapchat filters and Pokémon Go in 2016 (Demers 2016). Nowadays, Instagram, with its 2 billion active users, has emerged as a prominent platform for AR filter use, with a significant portion of users engaging with filter effects on a regular basis (Miller & McIntyre 2022).

The Study of Filters

The proliferation of AR filters raises important questions about digital identity, technological proficiency, and societal norms. As digital tools become increasingly accessible and user-friendly, there is a risk of technological deskilling, wherein individuals rely on pre-packaged filters rather than cultivating their own creative expressions (Fisher 2020). Moreover, the prevalence of beauty filters, often promoting homogeneous beauty ideals, contributes to social comparison and body image concerns (Perloff 2014).

Various theoretical frameworks offer insights into the societal implications of AR filters. Social comparison theory elucidates how exposure to idealized images on social media engenders feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction (Festinger 1954). Objectification theory highlights the objectifying gaze inherent in beauty filters, perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards and reinforcing gender norms (Fredrickson & Roberts 1997). Additionally, neoliberal/postfeminist theories underscore the commodification of the body and the labor involved in maintaining digital personas (Elias, Gill & Scharff 2017).

While AR filters offer avenues for self-expression and digital exploration, they also pose challenges related to authenticity, identity distortion, and societal pressure. The phenomenon of "Snapchat dysmorphia," wherein individuals seek cosmetic procedures to emulate filtered versions of themselves, underscores the potential harm of unrealistic beauty standards perpetuated by filters. Moreover, the normalization of subtle, ambient forms of editing blurs the line between reality and digital augmentation, complicating notions of authenticity and self-representation (Lavrence & Cambre 2020).

Gender Dynamics and Sociocultural Norms

Gender plays a significant role in filter usage, with filters often coded as feminine and associated with beautification. This gendered perception influences how individuals engage with filters, with men often using filters for humor or entertainment, while women use them to enhance their appearance. The tacit social understanding of gender presentation begins at a young age, with children as young as 10 internalizing societal expectations regarding filter usage (Pescott 2020).

Future Directions and Ethical Considerations

As AR technology advances, incorporating AI-generated filters and integrating them into various applications beyond social media platforms, ethical considerations become paramount. The potential for filter use to exacerbate societal inequalities, perpetuate harmful beauty standards, and distort digital identities underscores the need for critical reflection and regulatory scrutiny. The pervasive influence of AR filters extends beyond mere digital embellishment, shaping perceptions of self, identity, and beauty in the digital age. By interrogating the societal implications, gender dynamics, and theoretical frameworks surrounding filter use, we can navigate the complex terrain of augmented reality with greater awareness and critical insight, fostering a digital landscape that prioritizes authenticity, diversity, and ethical engagement.

Reference list

Barker, J 2020, ‘Making-up on mobile: The pretty filters and ugly implications of Snapchat’, Fashion, Style & Popular Culture, vol. 7, no. 2, pp. 207–221.

Demers, B 2016, ‘The Future is "AR"​: Pokemon Go, Snapchat, and the Power of Real-time, Contextual Marketing’, www.linkedin.com, viewed March 2024, <https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/future-ar-pokemon-go-snapchat-power-real-time-marketing-demers/?trk=public_profile_article_view>.

Elias, AS, Gill, R & Scharff, C 2017, Aesthetic labour : rethinking beauty politics in neoliberalism, Palgrave Macmillan, London.

Festinger, L 1954, ‘A Theory of Social Comparison Processes’, Human Relations, vol. 7, no. 2, pp. 117–140, viewed <https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/001872675400700202>.

Fisher, T 2020, ‘The smooth life: Instagram as a platform of control’, Virtual Creativity, vol. 10, no. 1, pp. 93–103.

Fredrickson, BL & Roberts, T-A 1997, ‘Objectification Theory: Toward Understanding Women’s Lived Experiences and Mental Health Risks’, Psychology of Women Quarterly, vol. 21, no. 2, pp. 173–206, viewed <https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1111/j.1471-6402.1997.tb00108.x>.

Lavrence, C & Cambre, C 2020, ‘“Do I Look Like My Selfie?”: Filters and the Digital-Forensic Gaze’, Social Media + Society, vol. 6, no. 4, p. 205630512095518.

Miller, LA & McIntyre, J 2022, ‘From surgery to Cyborgs: a thematic analysis of popular media commentary on Instagram filters’, Feminist Media Studies, vol. 23, no. 7, pp. 1–17.

Perloff, RM 2014, ‘Social Media Effects on Young Women’s Body Image Concerns: Theoretical Perspectives and an Agenda for Research’, Sex Roles, vol. 71, no. 11-12, pp. 363–377, viewed <https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11199-014-0384-6>.

Pescott, CK 2020, ‘“I Wish I was Wearing a Filter Right Now”: An Exploration of Identity Formation and Subjectivity of 10- and 11-Year Olds’ Social Media Use’, Social Media + Society, vol. 6, no. 4, p. 205630512096515.

Temitope, AR 2023, ‘Augmented Reality: Unveiling a Digital Frontier’, www.linkedin.com, viewed March 2024, <https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/augmented-reality-unveiling-digital-rontier-ajayi-raphael-temitope/>.

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WEEK 7: Body Modification on Visual Social Media

“While champions of the “new” creative economy consistently hype the career possibilities furnished by YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and the like, critics have cast a spotlight on the less auspicious elements of platform-dependent creative labor: exploitation, insecurity, and a culture of overwork.” - (Duffy & Meisner 2022)

Public Health Campaigns and Aesthetic Ideals

Public health campaigns have traditionally served as vehicles for disseminating vital information and promoting positive behavioral change. However, in the era of social media, these campaigns intersect with microcelebrity culture, wherein online personas curate and project highly stylized versions of themselves to garner visibility and status (Senft 2013). Unfortunately, the aesthetic templates endorsed by microcelebrity culture often perpetuate unrealistic body standards and unhealthy ideals.

For instance, the proliferation of pornification on social media platforms has normalized highly sexualized portrayals of femininity, leading to the objectification of individuals and the reinforcement of heteronormative beauty norms (Drenten, Gurrieri & Tyler 2019). This phenomenon not only contributes to body dissatisfaction but also exacerbates identity dissonance, particularly among marginalized groups whose visibility is further constrained by algorithmic biases (Duffy & Meisner 2022).

Implications for Body Image and Mental Health

The relentless pursuit of unattainable beauty standards propagated by microcelebrity culture has profound implications for body image and mental health. Research indicates a correlation between exposure to idealized images on social media and body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), wherein individuals become distressed over perceived flaws in their appearance (Jiotsa et al. 2021). Moreover, the pressure to conform to online aesthetic templates fuels fame labor, wherein individuals expend significant effort to reconcile their offline selves with their online personas.

Addressing the Crisis

To mitigate the adverse effects of microcelebrity culture on public health and well-being, concerted efforts are needed at multiple levels. Firstly, there is a pressing need for greater regulation of public health campaigns disseminated by online influencers. These campaigns should prioritize accuracy, transparency, and the promotion of realistic body ideals to foster a culture of positive self-image and self-acceptance.

Secondly, platforms must take proactive measures to curb the spread of harmful content and mitigate algorithmic biases that perpetuate visibility disparities among diverse communities. This entails implementing robust content moderation policies, enhancing transparency in algorithmic decision-making, and empowering users to curate their online experiences in alignment with their values and preferences.

Furthermore, education plays a pivotal role in empowering individuals to critically evaluate media messages, challenge societal norms, and cultivate resilience against unrealistic beauty standards. By promoting media literacy and self-care practices, individuals can navigate the digital landscape with greater agency and mindfulness, thereby safeguarding their mental and emotional well-being.

The convergence of public health campaigns, microcelebrity culture, and digital platforms poses both challenges and opportunities for promoting positive body image and mental health outcomes. By fostering collaboration among stakeholders, enhancing regulatory oversight, and prioritizing user well-being, we can harness the transformative potential of digital media to cultivate a culture of inclusivity, authenticity, and self-empowerment in the digital age.

Reference list

Drenten, J, Gurrieri, L & Tyler, M 2019, ‘Sexualized labour in digital culture: Instagram influencers, porn chic and the monetization of attention’, Gender, Work & Organization, vol. 27, no. 1.

Duffy, BE & Meisner, C 2022, ‘Platform governance at the margins: Social media creators’ experiences with algorithmic (in)visibility’, Media, Culture & Society, vol. 45, no. 2, p. 016344372211119.

Jiotsa, B, Naccache, B, Duval, M, Rocher, B & Grall-Bronnec, M 2021, ‘Social media use and body image disorders: Association between frequency of comparing one’s own physical appearance to that of people being followed on social media and body dissatisfaction and drive for thinness’, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, vol. 18, no. 6.

Senft, T 2013, ‘Microcelebrity and the Branded Self’, in A Companion to New Media Dynamics, John Wiley & Sons, pp. 346–354.

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WEEK 6: Digital Citizenship Casestudy | The Slow Fashion Movement

In recent years, the convergence of digital technology and societal participation has underscored the importance of digital citizenship. Coined as the ability to effectively engage with digital technologies for societal interaction and content creation, digital citizenship has become increasingly relevant in the age of social media (edCircuit, 2022). This allows us to explore the nexus between digital citizenship and the burgeoning Slow Fashion Movement, elucidating how digital platforms facilitate activism, ethical consumption, and corporate accountability.

Digital citizenship recap.

The advent of social media platforms has transformed the dynamics of digital citizenship, allowing individuals to voice opinions, share experiences, and mobilize for causes. As Vromen (2017) highlights, social media's ubiquity fosters the development of digital citizenship, enabling users to engage in online discourse and activism. In the context of the Slow Fashion Movement, digital citizenship manifests through the dissemination of information, advocacy for sustainability, and holding corporations accountable for their practices.

The Slow Fashion Movement.

The Slow Fashion Movement, rooted in principles of sustainability and ethical consumption, advocates for a shift away from fast-paced, disposable fashion towards durable, ethically produced garments (Domingos, Vale & Faria, 2022). Stemming from historical roots in counter-culture movements and protests against unethical labor practices, the movement emphasizes quality, longevity, and responsible production (Lai, Henninger & Alevizou, 2017). However, the widespread adoption of social media has propelled the movement to new heights, enabling activists to amplify their message and engage with a global audience.

Greenwashing.

As consumers become increasingly conscientious about the environmental impact of fashion, they hold companies accountable for their practices. Instances of greenwashing, where companies mislead consumers with deceptive sustainability claims, are met with skepticism and criticism from digitally savvy consumers (De Freitas Netto et al., 2020). Through digital activism and consumer advocacy, individuals exert pressure on corporations to adopt transparent, environmentally responsible practices.

Digital citizenship and activism.

Digital citizenship intersects with the Slow Fashion Movement through various channels, including activism, education, and consumer advocacy. Online platforms serve as catalysts for awareness-raising campaigns, with influencers and organizations leveraging their digital presence to promote sustainable fashion practices. Notable figures like Kristen Leo, Venetia La Manna, and Big Sister Swap utilize their platforms to advocate for ethical consumption, challenge industry norms, and inspire collective action. By harnessing the power of digital media, these influencers foster a sense of digital citizenship, empowering individuals to make informed choices and demand accountability from fashion brands.

As individuals participate in discussions surrounding slow fashion, they exemplify digital ethics and respect for others online. By sharing informative content, engaging in constructive dialogue, and supporting sustainable initiatives, digital citizens contribute to the ethos of the Slow Fashion Movement while upholding principles of digital citizenship.

The transformative potential of digital platforms in fostering sustainability, ethical consumption, and corporate accountability is increasingly being utilized. As individuals harness their digital citizenship to advocate for change, they catalyze a collective movement towards a more equitable, environmentally conscious fashion industry. By embracing digital activism, promoting ethical values, and challenging industry norms, digital citizens play a pivotal role in shaping the future of fashion towards sustainability and social responsibility.

Reference list

Brewer, MK 2019, ‘Slow Fashion in a Fast Fashion World: Promoting Sustainability and Responsibility’, Laws, vol. 8, no. 4, p. 24, viewed <https://www.mdpi.com/2075-471X/8/4/24>.

De Freitas Netto, SV, Sobral, MFF, Ribeiro, ARB & Soares, GR da L 2020, ‘Concepts and Forms of greenwashing: a Systematic Review’, Environmental Sciences Europe, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 1–12, viewed <https://enveurope.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s12302-020-0300-3>.

Domingos, M, Vale, VT & Faria, S 2022, ‘Slow Fashion Consumer Behavior: a Literature Review’, Sustainability, vol. 14, no. 5, p. 2860.

edCircuit 2022, ‘Digital Citizenship’, edCircuit, viewed February 2024, <https://edcircuit.com/digital-citizenship-in-k-20-schools/#:~:text=A%20digital%20citizen%20refers%20to>.

Lai, Z, Henninger, CE & Alevizou, PJ 2017, ‘An Exploration of Consumers’ Perceptions Towards Sustainable Fashion – A Qualitative Study in the UK’, Sustainability in Fashion, pp. 81–101.

Vromen, A 2017, Digital citizenship and political engagement the challenge from online campaigning and advocacy organisations, Palgrave Macmillan, London.

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WEEK 5: From digital citizenship to participatory democracy

“A digital citizen is a person with the skills and knowledge to effectively use digital technologies to participate in society, communicate with others and create and consume digital content.” - Office of the eSafety Commissioner

In the contemporary era, the notion of digital citizenship has evolved beyond being merely a proficiency in using digital technologies.

The Nation: What does a platform mean to a digital citizen?

The concept of a digital platform extends beyond mere technological infrastructure; it embodies the digital nation where citizens belong. As Gillespie (2010) suggests, a platform can be computational, political, and architectural. In the context of digital citizenship, it serves as the foundational space where citizens interact, communicate, and express themselves. The term 'platformization' encapsulates the growing integration of digital platforms into every aspect of society (Chia et al. 2020), transforming them into essential components of the digital nation. Hashtags emerge as key tools within these platforms, fostering connectivity, bundling content, and allowing citizens to form their "digital homes".

The People: What does a digital citizen mean to a digital platform?

Expressive participation becomes a crucial avenue for achieving participatory democracy in the digital age. This concept has been determined in various ways, from discussions about politics to public expressions of support for politicians (Boyle et al. 2006; Scheufele & Eveland 2001). Social media platforms serve as arenas for citizens to engage in micro-level civic activities, expressing their opinions, supporting causes, and actively participating in political discourse. The evolution of political engagement is evident in the decline of traditional, collective action-oriented organizations and the rise of citizens' involvement along with online social movements (Vromen, 2017). Social media, with its expressive and dynamic nature, plays a pivotal role in shaping this new landscape of political engagement.

The Nation and the People: Participatory democracy

Participatory democracy undergoes a transformation in the digital realm, with citizens finding new ways to engage politically. The shift towards online social movements, digital activism, and dynamic civic participation indicates a departure from traditional long-term allegiances  (Vromen, 2017). Social media platforms emerge as influential spaces where citizens contribute to political conversations, shape opinions, and mobilize for various causes (Alodat, Al-Qora’n & Abu Hamoud 2023). As political engagement evolves in response to the affordances of social media, the digital citizen can become an active participant in the democratic process, influencing discourse and contributing to the broader political landscape.

Reference list

Alodat, A, Al-Qora’n, LF & Abu Hamoud, M 2023, ‘Social Media Platforms and Political Participation: A Study of Jordanian Youth Engagement’, Social Sciences, vol. 12, no. 7, p. 402, viewed <https://www.mdpi.com/2076-0760/12/7/402>.

Boyle, M, Schmierbach, M, Armstrong, C, Cho, J, McCluskey, M, McLeod, D & Shah, D 2006, ‘Expressive Responses to News Stories About Extremist Groups: A Framing Experiment’, Journal of Communication, vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 271–288, viewed 14 January 2020, <https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1460-2466.2006.00019.x>.

Chia, A, Keogh, B, Leorke, D & Nicoll, B 2020, ‘Platformisation in game development’, Internet Policy Review, vol. 9, no. 4.

Gillespie, T 2010, ‘The politics of “platforms”’, New Media & Society, vol. 12, no. 3, pp. 347–364, viewed <https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1461444809342738>.

Scheufele, DA & Eveland, WP 2001, ‘Perceptions of “Public Opinion” and “Public” Opinion Expression’, International Journal of Public Opinion Research, vol. 13, no. 1, pp. 25–44.

Vromen, A 2017, Digital citizenship and political engagement the challenge from online campaigning and advocacy organisations, Palgrave Macmillan, London.

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WEEK 4: How do we consume reality television

Reality TV, also termed popular factual television, occupies a unique space straddling information and entertainment, documentary and drama (Hill 2005). In this dynamic genre, people with real identities become the focal point, blurring the lines between authenticity and spectacle, challenging traditional categorizations and inviting audiences into a captivating intersection of reality and entertainment.

TV shows are now digested via social media?

TV shows have woven themselves into the fabric of social media, where they transcend mere social interaction with friends and family to become hubs for shared interests.

As Deller (2020) observes, online communities thrive in these spaces, whether they are tightly organized on platforms like Facebook or loosely united by common hashtags on Twitter. Notably, Mark Andrejevic (2008) points out a fascinating trend, where some audiences engage with TV shows solely through recaps, finding these summaries both entertaining and comprehensive enough to stand alone. This indicates that there is a portion of the audience who start consuming reality TV content only because they are social media users. The allure of social media as a vibrant arena for reality television discourse lies in its omnipresence and content centralization, making it a convenient space to concentrate discussions spanning social, professional, and personal interests across a handful of major platforms (Deller 2020).

TV shows engagement gives us a sense of community?

The engagement with reality TV not only entertains but also fosters a profound sense of community, accentuated by the genre's inclination toward 'liveness.' As Couldry (2003) contends, the emphasis on 'liveness' in reality shows, particularly those broadcast live with audience participation through voting, plays a crucial role in uniting society.

“��Liveness’ naturalizes the idea that, through the media, we achieve a shared attention to the realities that matter for us as a society.” - (Couldry 2003)

Deller (2020) underscores the significance of social media in enhancing this communal aspect, transforming the act of watching reality shows into a shared social event. The genre's inherent humor further contributes to this sense of community, with shows incorporating humor into their style. This comedic thread weaves through social media discussions, manifesting in puns, quips, animated gifs, memes, and sarcastic commentary, creating a unique tapestry of inside jokes that strengthens the bonds of the viewing community (Deller 2020).

TV show personas are not seen as “real people”?

“Viewers can be quick to forget that the comments they make online are about real people, and that those real people may well see the comments and be genuinely affected by them.” - (Paul Kelly)

The disconnect between the on-screen persona and the real-life person can lead to a dehumanization of TV show personalities. This phenomenon is accentuated by the virtual nature of online interactions, where the immediacy and anonymity of commenting can foster a sense of detachment from the consequences of one's words. Therefore, acknowledging the genuine impact that online comments can have on the individuals behind the personas is crucial to prevent harm being done.

Reference list

Andrejevic, M 2008, ‘Watching Television Without Pity’, Television & New Media, vol. 9, no. 1, pp. 24–46.

Couldry, N 2003, Media Rituals : A Critical Approach, Routledge.

Deller, R 2020, Reality television : the TV phenomenon that changed the world, Bingley, Uk Emerald Publishing.

Hill, A 2005, Reality TV: Audiences and Popular Factual Television, Routledge, London.

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WEEK 3: How does Tumblr function as a digital community

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital communities, Tumblr stands out as a distinctive platform that has played a pivotal role in shaping online interactions since its inception in February 2007. The brainchild of high school graduate David Karp and developer Marco Arment, Tumblr introduced a new format, inspired by the tumblelog, fostering short-form, mixed-media posts (Davis 2013).

Tumblr as a public sphere:

The concept of a public sphere, as defined by Kruse, Norris, and Flinchum (2018), involves individuals coming together, exchanging knowledge and information to foster political change. In a sense, social media in general, and specifically Tumblr aligns quite closely with this definition, serving as a space for access to information, equal participation, and protection from institutional influence. As a social media platform, Tumblr facilitates dialogue and engagement on a diverse range of topics, making it a dynamic digital public sphere.

Tumblr as an artistic “blackhole”:

“...the platform’s affordances, namely its de-prioritizing of searchability in the site’s design, grant users a sense of freedom from the constraints of more traditional networked social media—like being in a black hole, you just keep going without knowing what you’re going to find.” - (Keller 2019)

Users on Tumblr prefer conveying messages through images, taking on the role of content curators by sharing both original and reblogged content (Cho 2015). In this context, Tumblr can be interpreted as a platform that places a high value on aesthetics, a characteristic accentuated by its support for user-customized short-form blogs. This aligns with its initial identity as a creative community (Keller 2019).

Tumblr as a safe place for minorities and marginalized individuals:

With its roots in traditional weblogs and social networking sites, Tumblr has become a breeding ground for diverse and empowering feminist communities (Reif, Miller & Taddicken 2022). Before the 2018 ban on NSFW content, Tumblr was a central hub for subcultures centered around body positivity, gender nonconformity, queerness, and art (Pilipets & Paasonen 2020). Its lenient content policy allowed for the expression of diverse identities, fostering inclusivity and empowerment. Tumblr serves as a space where girls and women explore emerging feminist identities, create solidarity, and challenge normative beauty standards (Keller 2019).

The prevailing trend in social media involves platforms like Instagram and YouTube being dominated by influential figures with sizable audiences. Additionally, the entry barriers in the digital landscape hinder third-wave cultural intermediaries from participating in crucial realms such as public issues, current affairs, civic media, and societal discussions (Hutchinson 2019). In contrast, Tumblr, functioning as a personal blog platform, provides a space where individual voices can be expressed and heard.

Reference list

Cho, A 2015, ‘Queer Reverb: Tumblr, Affect, Time’, Networked Affect, MIT Press, pp. 43–57.

Davis, S 2013, ‘So What Do You Do, David Karp, Founder of Tumblr?’, Mediabistro, viewed 1 February 2024, <https://web.archive.org/web/20130119110211/http://www.mediabistro.com/So-What-Do-You-Do-David-Karp-Founder-of-Tumblr-a10281.html>.

Hutchinson, J 2019, ‘Micro-platformization for digital activism on social media’, Information, Communication & Society, vol. 24, no. 1, pp. 35–51.

Keller, J 2019, ‘“Oh, She’s a Tumblr Feminist”: Exploring the Platform Vernacular of Girls’ Social Media Feminisms’, Social Media + Society, vol. 5, no. 3, pp. 1–11.

Kruse, L, Norris, D & Flinchum, J 2018, ‘Social Media as a Public Sphere? Politics on Social Media’, The Sociological Quarterly, vol. 59, no. 1, pp. 62–84.

Pilipets, E & Paasonen, S 2020, ‘Nipples, memes, and algorithmic failure: NSFW critique of Tumblr censorship’, New Media & Society, vol. 24, no. 6, p. 146144482097928.

Reif, A, Miller, I & Taddicken, M 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.

Renninger, BJ 2014, ‘“Where I can be myself … where I can speak my mind” : Networked counterpublics in a polymedia environment’, New Media & Society, vol. 17, no. 9, pp. 1513–1529.