marisdinh

[marisdinh]

Week 10: Online Conflict: How Can Digital Citizens Truly Make a Difference?

When I think about online communities, I imagine a space where people connect and share positivity. But when scrolling through comments, it's hard to ignore that social media is also full of conflict, power plays, and harassment. Seeing people get attacked—often just because of their gender, race, or sexual orientation—I keep asking myself: how can we make these spaces safer?

It’s clear that certain groups, particularly women and transgender individuals, face the brunt of this aggression. Studies consistently show that women and minorities are disproportionately targeted online, often to the point where they feel pressured to censor themselves or even leave these spaces altogether (Chadha et al., 2020; Nadim & Fladmoe, 2019). I remember a friend, an outspoken advocate for gender equality, who faced brutal comments simply for sharing her views. The emotional toll of that harassment pushed her away from the digital communities she once loved.

Celebrities like comedian Hannah Gadsby deal with similar issues. Known for her sharp and heartfelt humor, Gadsby uses her platform to challenge the prejudice and hostility she faces. In her show Nanette, she bravely talks about her experiences with online harassment, using humor to raise awareness and inspire others to push back against hate (Carlson & Witt, 2020). Her story is a powerful reminder that we all play a part in making social media a place for support and empathy.

But this responsibility can’t fall solely on individuals. Social media platforms and brands need to step up. As Tamara Littleton, CEO of The Social Element, points out, brands should not only protect influencers from harassment but also provide resources to help them cope. Standing up for safety isn’t just good for branding; it’s about helping create healthier online communities (Suzor et al., 2018).

So what can we, as digital citizens, actually do? First, speak up. If you see someone being harassed, don’t stay silent. Report abusive behavior, use platform tools, and leave supportive comments to help victims feel less isolated. Research shows that even small acts of support can make a difference in helping people feel seen and supported (Vitak et al., 2017; Im et al., 2022).

If someone like Hannah Gadsby can turn her pain into purpose, then each of us can take small steps to build safer digital spaces. Together, we can create a social media landscape where everyone feels respected and empowered.

Refererences:

Carlson, C. & Witt, H. R. (2020). Online harassment of U.S. women journalists and its impact on press freedom. First Monday, 25.

2. Chadha, K., Steiner, L., Vitak, J., & Ashktorab, Z. (2020). Women’s responses to online harassment. International Journal of Communication, 14, pp. 19

3. Im, J., Schoenebeck, S., Iriarte, M., Grill, G., Wilkinson, D., Batool, A., Alharbi, R., Funwie, A., Gankhuu, T., Gilbert, E., & Naseem, M. (2022). Women’s perspectives on harm and justice after online harassment. Proceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction, 6, pp. 1-23.

4. Nadim, M. & Fladmoe, A. (2019). Silencing women? Gender and online harassment. Social Science Computer Review, 39, pp. 245-258.

5. Suzor, N., Dragiewicz, M., Harris, B. A., Gillett, R., Burgess, J., & Van Geelen, T. (2018). Human rights by design: The responsibilities of social media platforms to address gender-based violence online. Policy & Internet.

6. Vitak, J., Chadha, K., Steiner, L., & Ashktorab, Z. (2017). Identifying women's experiences with and strategies for mitigating negative effects of online harassment. Proceedings of the 2017 ACM Conference on Computer Supported Cooperative Work and Social Computing.

[marisdinh]

WEEK 9: Is Esports the New Frontier of Modern Sports?

In this week's lesson, I had the opportunity to explore various fascinating aspects of the gaming world. From basic definitions like "what is a game?" to the historical evolution of video games over time, I gradually began to understand how games are not just a form of entertainment but also a vital part of modern culture. Research has shown that video games today have become an integral part of cultural life, significantly impacting aspects such as consumption, communities, and the shaping of personal identity (Muriel & Crawford, 2018). We discussed gaming culture, how games build strong communities, and the social relationships among players. Thanks to online platforms and social networks, gaming communities have become spaces for sharing and collective experiences, contributing to the formation of new cultural values (Squire, 2002). Concepts like “modification”—the customization and creativity built on the game’s original foundation—and the rise of livestreaming also bring a fresh perspective on the richness and diversity of the gaming world.

However, what impressed me the most was the eSports theme in the lecture. Not merely an extension of video games, eSports has developed into a professional field with millions of fans, major tournaments, and the dedication of professional players. Recent studies suggest that eSports can be regarded as a legitimate sport because it demands a high level of skill, strategy, and teamwork (Styhre et al., 2018). For professional players, eSports is a serious career. They spend hours every day practicing, analyzing opponents, and developing strategies—similar to what a professional football or basketball player does. They also need to maintain mental health and high concentration to compete at the highest level.

However, the question of whether eSports qualifies as a real sport remains contentious. Proponents argue that eSports deserves recognition as a sport due to its demanding requirements: skill, strategy, teamwork, and mental endurance. Major eSports tournaments, such as Dota 2’s The International or the League of Legends World Championship, attract millions of viewers globally. Many fans even compare the excitement of watching eSports with watching major sports events like the World Cup or the Olympic Games. For them, eSports brings joy, excitement, and a love of sports comparable to traditional sports (Champion, 2020).

Of course, there are opposing views. Some argue that sports should involve physical activity, requiring muscular exertion. They believe that eSports lacks this aspect, so it cannot be considered a true sport. However, if we consider activities like chess or Formula 1 racing—which don’t require extensive physical exertion but are still recognized as sports—it might be unwise to draw too rigid a boundary between traditional sports and eSports (Champion, 2020).

Personally, I believe that eSports absolutely deserves recognition as a sport. eSports athletes do more than just play games; they face immense pressure, work as a team, and maintain rigorous discipline to succeed. When watching eSports matches, the thrill, tension, and sense of community feel very similar to what I experience watching a football or basketball game. The pride when a team wins, or the disappointment when a favorite team loses—all of it feels real and filled with emotion.

What about you? Do you think eSports should be recognized as a legitimate sport, or do you see it as just another form of entertainment? This is definitely a topic worth discussing, especially as eSports is becoming more popular and influential than ever. Feel free to leave your comments and thoughts below! 😁(An interesting game you should try to play that come from Viet Nam country, I'm really exciting to introduce this game to you: ( https://store.steampowered.com/app/2456350/The_Scourge__Tai_ng/?l=vietnamese ) 😍

References:

1.Champion, E. (2020). Culturally Significant Presence in Single-player Computer Games. Journal on Computing and Cultural Heritage (JOCCH), 13, pp. 1-24

2. Muriel, D., & Crawford, G. (2018). Video Games as Culture: Considering the Role and Importance of Video Games in Contemporary Society

3. Squire, K. (2002). Cultural Framing of Computer/Video Games. Game Studies, 2.

4. Styhre, A., Szczepanska, A., & Remneland-Wikhamn, B. (2018). Consecrating video games as cultural artifacts: Intellectual legitimation as a source of industry renewal. Scandinavian Journal of Management, 34, pp. 22-28.

[marisdinh]

Week 8: Are Beauty Filters Really Harmless? A Balanced Look at AR and Self-Image.

Augmented reality (AR) filters have become a huge part of social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat. For many people, filters are a fun and creative way to add a little flair to their photos. Who doesn’t love a cute bunny ears filter or a funny face distortion, right? Sometimes, filters are just for laughs, creating moments of joy for ourselves and others. Some people even feel more comfortable posting with a filter, especially if they’re not feeling confident about their appearance.

But there’s another side to this. Beauty filters often push one specific beauty standard: perfect skin, large eyes, a slim face, and a high nose bridge. This can make people feel like they’re only “beautiful” if they match these features. In fact, this trend has even led to something called “Snapchat dysmorphia.” In the past, patients would bring in photos of celebrities when they visited cosmetic surgeons, but now, many are bringing filtered photos of themselves, hoping to make those digital features permanent (Rajanala, Maymone & Vashi 2018). This shift shows just how deeply these filters can affect the way we see ourselves.

Studies have also shown that frequent Snapchat filter users, especially younger people, are more likely to feel dissatisfied with their real appearance, even though they know filters aren’t real (Burnell, Kurup & Underwood 2021). This creates a kind of "comparison loop"—the more they use filters to “improve” their image, the less satisfied they feel, leading them to rely even more on filters. It’s a powerful example of how beauty filters can lock us into a cycle of unrealistic standards.

In my opinion, filters aren’t all bad. They can boost confidence, spark creativity, and let us play around with different styles without actually changing our appearance. Many people use filters just to feel a bit more comfortable in their photos, and that’s completely okay.

But we also need to remember that beauty isn’t limited to these virtual standards. Using filters can be a fun, creative tool, but it shouldn’t define how we see ourselves. In the end, it’s important to be mindful of how these virtual beauty ideals affect our mental health and self-worth. Instead of letting filters decide our value, let’s use them consciously—as a tool for creativity, not as a measure of confidence or beauty. Let’s keep social media a place where we can freely express ourselves without being bound by any digital standards.

References

Miller, T & McIntyre, L 2022, From surgery to Cyborgs: a thematic analysis of popular media commentary on Instagram filters.

Rajanala, A, Maymone, M & Vashi, N 2018, Selfies—living in the era of filtered photographs, JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery.

Burnell, K, Kurup, A & Underwood, J 2021, Snapchat lenses and body image concerns.

[marisdinh]

Week 7: The Dark Side of Beauty Standards on Social Media – Why We Need Digital Citizenship.

Social media is full of images that push certain beauty standards, often following “aesthetic templates” – poses, looks, and body modifications that influencers use to brand themselves. While some of these can be positive and empowering, many reflect unrealistic ideals that can harm body image, especially for younger users. Platforms like Instagram have normalized hyper-feminine poses and carefully curated looks, reinforcing narrow ideas of what “beauty” is supposed to be (Marwick 2013).

A strong example of this problem is the #Thinspiration trend. What started as motivation for a healthy lifestyle and self-improvement quickly turned toxic, promoting extreme weight loss and glorifying dangerously thin bodies. This trend, especially on Instagram and TikTok, shows photos and videos that celebrate extremely thin bodies, putting massive pressure on young viewers to feel like their bodies don’t “measure up.” This can lead to self-doubt and, in extreme cases, self-destructive behaviors in an attempt to meet these impossible standards.

Personally, it breaks my heart to see these negative effects on a platform I genuinely love. As someone who wants to spread positivity, I believe that digital citizenship is incredibly important here. I want to use this space to help people see that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. We can use the power of social media to create safe spaces where everyone feels free to express themselves without being tied down by toxic beauty standards.

As citizens of the digital world, each of us needs to stay aware of these aesthetic templates and support more diverse, authentic representations. Influencers and content creators hold a lot of power – they can either reinforce harmful ideals or use their platforms to promote positive self-image and inclusivity. I genuinely hope that, through conscious engagement and responsible content creation, we can help make social media a space that uplifts personal expression rather than restricting it.

References

Marwick, AE 2013, Status update: celebrity, publicity, and branding in the social media age, Yale University Press.

Drenten, J & Gurrieri, L 2019, Sexualized labour in digital culture: Instagram influencers, porn chic and the monetization of attention, Gender, Work and Organization.

Tyler, M & Quek, K 2016, Conceptualizing pornification, Sexualization, Media, & Society, vol. 2, no. 2.

Dobson, AS, Carah, N & Robards, B 2018, Digital Intimacies: Social Media and Interpersonal Relationships, Palgrave Macmillan.

Mavroudis, J 2020, The Social Media Self: Identity and Power in the Digital Age, Routledge.

[marisdinh]

WEEK 6: Why We Need to Rethink Fast Fashion – And Embrace Slow Fashion Instead

The fashion industry today is one of the most harmful to our planet, contributing up to 10% of global carbon emissions—more than the combined emissions of all international flights and shipping (Brewer 2019). Fast fashion’s cycle of mass production and overconsumption leads to millions of tons of unsold clothing ending up in landfills every year. These synthetic fabrics take hundreds of years to decompose, releasing harmful microplastics into our ecosystems (McKinsey 2022).

In response, the slow fashion movement has emerged as a sustainable solution to counteract the negative impacts of fast fashion. Slow fashion encourages us to focus on quality over quantity, with a commitment to lasting products, ethical labor, and transparency in the supply chain. As Fletcher (2007) puts it, slow fashion promotes “a slower pace of production” that minimizes social and environmental harm. This movement challenges us as consumers to rethink our shopping habits and help build a more responsible future for fashion.

A powerful example of slow fashion in action is Kilomet109, a Vietnamese brand founded by designer Thao Vu. This brand collaborates with local ethnic minorities, such as the Hmong and Dao, incorporating traditional weaving and dyeing techniques that use natural materials and eco-friendly dyes (Domingos et al. 2022). You can access to this link to know more about this project: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vjme60DtduM

By preserving and celebrating local cultural heritage, Kilomet109 not only produces high-quality, durable clothing but also supports fair, community-based production. It’s a clear example of how sustainable fashion can create positive social impact while honoring cultural roots.

Each of us can contribute to this change by taking small steps: buying less, choosing higher-quality items, or even exploring secondhand shopping. Sharing your journey toward slow fashion on social media can raise awareness and inspire others in your community to join the movement. Together, we can make a difference and help build a fashion industry that cares for both the planet and people.

( Thao Vu image in London Design Biennale museum)

References

Brewer, M.K. 2019, Slow Fashion in a Fast Fashion World: Promoting Sustainability and Responsibility, Laws, vol. 8, no. 4, pp. 1–10.

Domingos, M., Vale, V.T. & Faria, S. 2022, Slow Fashion Consumer Behavior: A Literature Review, Sustainability, vol. 14, no. 5, pp. 1-15.

Fletcher, K. 2007, Sustainable Fashion and Textiles: Design Journeys, Earthscan, London.

McKinsey & Company 2022, The State of Fashion 2022, McKinsey & Company.

[marisdinh]

Week 5: Exploring Digital Citizenship and Social Media Activism.

In today’s digital landscape, the concept of digital citizenship is more important than ever. It embodies the ways in which individuals engage with online communities, participate in political discussions, and express their viewpoints. As I navigate through social media daily, I've come to realize that just by being online, we become active digital citizens, whether we intend to engage or not.

Take TikTok, for example. The platform's algorithm often surprises me with a variety of topics and hashtags that I didn't actively seek out. My For You Page frequently features the hashtag #ClimateCrisis, which has become a crucial hub for climate activism. Users share informative videos, personal stories, and calls to action, shedding light on pressing environmental issues. Even if I don’t actively participate in these discussions, simply being aware of the conversations surrounding #ClimateCrisis makes me feel like a part of this engaged community. This experience highlights the idea that digital citizenship can manifest in many forms, even through passive engagement (Bennett & Segerberg, 2013).

Moving on to Instagram, the influence of social media activism is hard to ignore. Infographics detailing social injustices frequently flood my feed. During the #StopAsianHate movement, for example, users shared compelling infographics about the rise in anti-Asian violence and ways to support the community. Similarly, during Pride Month, many of my friends share posts tagged with #Pride2024 to highlight LGBTQ+ issues and celebrate diversity. While I may not always be the one sharing these resources, the volume of information available creates a sense of collective action and community involvement.

What strikes me about this form of activism is its accessibility. Infographics are typically straightforward, easy to understand, and often include practical suggestions for further action. Although I believe that social media activists should strive to go beyond simply posting infographics and make tangible contributions to the causes they support, it’s also essential to recognize that raising awareness through these posts is far better than remaining silent. As users' feeds become inundated with a single topic, it becomes increasingly challenging to ignore pressing societal issues (Nishikawa & Taneja, 2021).

Reflecting on this week’s readings, I've realized how much of my political and social awareness derives from my social media interactions. The mutual connections I share with those I follow further amplify this impact. As I engage with like-minded individuals and hashtags, it’s evident that this phenomenon is common and will continue to grow in significance. The concept of hashtag publics plays a critical role in facilitating connectivity and organizing activism, as these hashtags serve as linguistic markers that help users find and connect with related content, forming "ad hoc issue publics" (Bruns & Burgess, 2015).

In conclusion, digital citizenship encompasses not just the act of being online, but also the ways in which we navigate, engage, and participate in discussions about political and social issues. Through hashtags and infographics, we can raise awareness and foster meaningful conversations, even if we’re not always at the forefront of activism. I’m curious to hear your thoughts on this! How do you perceive your role as a digital citizen? Do you feel that social media has changed the way we engage with important issues? Share your insights in the comments below!

References

Bennett, W. L., & Segerberg, A. (2013). The Logic of Connective Action: Digital Media and the Personalization of Struggle. Information, Communication & Society, 16(1), 39-60. doi:10.1080/1369118X.2012.760861.

Bruns, A., & Burgess, J. (2015). #Auspol: The Twitter Hashtag Australia Can’t Live Without. The Conversation. Retrieved from The Conversation.

Kaye, D. B., & A. T. (2021). TikTok and Political Participation: Engaging Young Voters Through Digital Media. Journal of Political Marketing, 20(1), 25-43. doi:10.1080/15377857.2020.1791030.

Nishikawa, H., & Taneja, H. (2021). Digital Citizenship: The Impact of Social Media on Civic Engagement. Journal of Media Ethics, 36(4), 211-226. doi:10.1080/23736992.2021.1983752.

[marisdinh]

 Week 4: Digital Community and Fandom: Reality TV Case Study.

When it comes to reality TV, many people often think of entertaining moments, but few realize that these shows also raise significant social issues. In Week 4, we discussed how reality TV not only reflects but also shapes cultural values, creating spaces for important discussions. This duality is what makes reality TV such a compelling topic for analysis.

One of the most notable benefits of reality TV is its ability to give voice to groups that may not be represented in other television genres. Programs like The Real World have brought personal stories from the LGBTQ+ community, people of color, and other minority groups to the forefront. This not only helps raise awareness but also promotes acceptance and empathy from the audience. As Lovelock (2019) points out, these stories can become bridges between different cultures, fostering empathy and connection across generations. Watching Pedro Zamora share his story in The Real World: Brooklyn was particularly impactful for me; it opened my eyes to the struggles faced by those living with HIV/AIDS and made me appreciate the importance of representation in media.

However, it cannot be denied that reality TV also presents many issues. One of the biggest concerns is the accuracy and authenticity of what is presented. Many reality shows use scripting or create situations to make the content more engaging. This can lead to misunderstandings and misconceptions about the real lives of the characters, perpetuating inaccurate stereotypes in society. Graham and Haijru (2011) indicated that while reality TV can spark political discussions, it also risks promoting misleading messages about critical issues. For instance, the portrayal of celebrities in Keeping Up with the Kardashians may create unrealistic expectations for viewers regarding fame and wealth, leading to a skewed perception of what it means to be successful.

A prime example that encapsulates both the benefits and challenges of reality TV is Keeping Up with the Kardashians. This show has provided viewers with a glimpse into the lives of the Kardashian family, showcasing everything from fun moments to controversies and challenges they face. On one hand, the program has helped many realize that fame and wealth do not always equate to happiness. It has created a space for discussions about the complexities of gender identity, beauty standards, and mental health issues in modern society. However, on the other hand, the show has been criticized for its excessive scripting, which can lead to misconceptions about the lives of celebrities and negatively influence young people searching for ideal role models.

Moreover, reality TV also encourages audience participation. Viewers don’t just watch; they interact, generating online discussions about the topics in the shows. Hashtags like #Kardashians and analytical posts on social media often reflect how audiences feel and react to the content. As L’Hoiry (2019) noted, this participation goes beyond mere viewership; it opens up opportunities for meaningful social discussions, allowing audiences to express their opinions on the issues presented in the show. I personally enjoy engaging in discussions on platforms like Twitter after watching an episode, as it helps me see different perspectives and contributes to a richer understanding of the issues raised.

Overall, reality TV can be a powerful tool for igniting social discussions and promoting acceptance, but it also presents challenges that need to be carefully considered. These shows can help create public spaces for conversation, but we must also be aware that the content we consume is not always accurate or reflective of reality. I would love to hear your thoughts on this topic! Do you believe that reality TV can foster important discussions about social issues? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!

References Graham, T., & Haijru, A. (2011). Reality TV as a trigger of everyday political talk in a net-based public sphere. European Journal of Communication. Lovelock, M. (2019). Reality TV and Queer Identities. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-14215-5_1. L’Hoiry, J. (2019). Reality Television and Social Engagement: A Critical Analysis. Journal of Media Studies.

[marisdinh]

Week 3: Discovering Tumblr: A Whimsical World of Diversity and Self-Expression! 🌈

Welcome, fellow explorers! Today, we’re diving into the enchanting world of Tumblr. More than just a platform for sharing images and content, Tumblr is a vibrant "candy factory" for those seeking connection, creativity, and self-expression. Ready to uncover its unique role in building online communities? Let’s go!

1. Tumblr: A Safe Haven for Diversity

Picture this: you step into Tumblr, and instantly feel a warm embrace of inclusivity. Unlike many social media platforms, Tumblr lets you be anonymous, allowing freedom in sharing your personal stories and opinions. Jessalyn Keller (2019) captures this perfectly, stating that many, especially teenagers and LGBTQ+ folks, flock to Tumblr because they don’t fear judgment. “Nobody knows who anybody is”—that’s the magic of Tumblr! (Keller, 2019, p. 8)

2. Willy Wonka and the Magic of Memes

Let’s not forget the iconic Willy Wonka meme! This delightful expression from the film Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971) reminds newcomers to familiarize themselves with Tumblr’s quirky language and rules. Just like Wonka’s factory, Tumblr is a whimsical place where different people unite over shared passions, creating a vibrant atmosphere of creativity and dialogue ( Mc Cracken, 2020).

3. The #BodyPositive Movement: Embracing All Bodies

One of the shining stars on Tumblr is the #bodypositive movement. 🌟 This hashtag empowers individuals to share their journeys of self-acceptance and body diversity (Reif, Miller & Taddicken, 2022). Originating from those who feel marginalized by traditional beauty standards, #bodypositive celebrates every shape and size. It’s a beautiful reminder that confidence is what truly shines! 💖

4. A Home for Marginalized Voices

From 2007 to 2018, Tumblr became a safe haven for many disenfranchised groups, including youth, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities (Reif, Miller & Taddicken, 2022). The platform has fostered critical discussions around Black feminist theory, non-binary identity, and more. Tumblr isn’t just about sharing content; it’s a vibrant forum for voices that matter.

5. Challenges Ahead

Of course, Tumblr isn’t without its challenges. 🚧 There have been concerns regarding safety and navigation, making it tricky for some to engage. But despite these hurdles, Tumblr’s strength lies in its ability to build community—a place where you can find support and share resources.

Join the Conversation!

Now it’s your turn! Do you feel that Tumblr is a safe space for self-expression? What’s your favorite aspect of the platform? Share your thoughts in the comments below! 💬👇

References

Keller, J. (2019). Oh She’s a Tumblr Feminist: Exploring the Platform Vernacular of Girls’ Social Media Feminisms. Social Media + Society, 5(3), 1-12.

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.

McCracken, A. (2020). A Tumblr Book: Platform and Cultures.