v1821anna - Tumblr blog

[v1821anna]

🌐 Navigating Digital Citizenship and Conflict: The Crucial Role of Social Media Governance 🌐

🔍 Deep Dive into Digital Citizenship 🔍

Digital citizenship extends beyond mere online etiquette; it's a comprehensive approach that entails understanding our rights, responsibilities, and the collective well-being in the digital realm. It's about making informed, respectful, and ethical decisions while interacting online. As the digital landscape becomes increasingly integral to our daily lives, fostering a profound understanding of digital citizenship is crucial for nurturing environments where constructive and meaningful interactions can flourish. In gaming communities, for instance, digital citizenship can significantly influence the culture and interactions within those spaces, promoting inclusivity and respect (Maloney et al., 2019; Hjorth et al., 2021).

🛡️ Unpacking Social Media Governance 🛡️

Social media governance involves implementing a framework of policies, practices, and guidelines that shape online interactions to foster a safe and respectful digital environment. Effective governance can mitigate conflicts and address issues such as misinformation, harassment, and privacy concerns. Governance structures play a pivotal role in shaping the dynamics of online communities, influencing how individuals interact and perceive digital spaces (Heath, 2021). By establishing clear norms and protocols, social media platforms can create environments that encourage positive engagement and deter harmful behaviors.

📢 Empowering Voices Through Digital Platforms 📢

Digital platforms have become powerful tools for advocacy and change, enabling individuals and communities to raise awareness, mobilize support, and drive social change. The #MeToo movement exemplifies how social media can amplify voices, particularly those of marginalized groups, fostering a global conversation about sexual harassment and gender inequality (Reinicke, 2022). This digital mobilization underscores the potential of well-governed digital spaces to serve as catalysts for societal transformation and advocacy.

🎮 Gaming Communities and Digital Conduct 🎮

Gaming communities are microcosms of broader digital spaces, reflecting various aspects of digital citizenship and the impacts of social media governance. These communities demonstrate how digital interactions, when governed effectively, can promote inclusivity, diversity, and positive engagement. Conversely, they also highlight the challenges of managing conflicts and toxic behaviors within digital spaces, underscoring the importance of robust governance mechanisms to foster healthy online communities (Maloney et al., 2019; Keogh, 2021).

👥 Promoting Positive Digital Engagement 👥

Positive digital engagement is about fostering constructive interactions, encouraging empathy, and building a sense of community online. It involves recognizing the diversity of online communities and striving to create inclusive spaces where all individuals feel valued and heard. By actively contributing to respectful discourse and challenging negative behaviors, users can play a crucial role in shaping the culture of digital spaces, promoting an environment where everyone can participate meaningfully and safely (Haslop, 2021).

📚 Envisioning a Progressive Digital Future 📚

The future of our digital world hinges on our collective efforts to promote responsible digital citizenship and implement effective social media governance. By embracing these principles, we can work towards a digital landscape that is not only inclusive and respectful but also empowering and enriching for all its users. This vision for the digital future is attainable through shared commitment, ongoing education, and the proactive engagement of all stakeholders in the digital ecosystem (Plan International, 2020).

#DigitalCitizenship #ResponsibleEngagement #InclusiveCommunities #PositiveChange 🌐✨

References Hjorth, L., et al. (2021). Exploring play in Minecraft. Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-59908-9_2

Haslop, C. (2021). #nosnowflakes: Online harassment. In Haslop & Dobson (Eds.), Digital Intimate Publics and Social Media (pp. 1-17). Palgrave Macmillan. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-27629-2_1

Heath, M. (2021). What kind of digital citizen? Rethinking digital literacy. In M. Heath & J. Baker (Eds.), Digital Citizenship in a Datafied Society (pp. 1-18). Polity Press.

Keogh, B. (2021). The Melbourne indie game scene. In B. Keogh (Ed.), Playing at the Next Level: A History of American Sega Games (pp. 1-19). Wayne State University Press.

Maloney, M., et al. (2019). Gender, masculinity, and video gaming. In Maloney & Roberts (Eds.), Masculinities in Play (pp. 1-22). Palgrave Macmillan. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-28262-2_1

Plan International. (2020). Free to be online? Girls’ and young women’s experiences of online harassment. Plan International. https://plan-international.org/publications/free-be-online

Reinicke, K. (2022). Men after #MeToo. In K. Reinicke (Ed.), Men after #MeToo: Confronting Male Power and Privilege (pp. 1-21). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-96911-0_1

[v1821anna]

Gaming Communities: Uniting Players, Sharing Experiences, and Building Connections! 🎮🌐✨

Hei kaikki Tumblrissa! 👋 Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of gaming communities? 🌍🎮✨ In this Tumblr post, I'll explore the power of gaming communities, the rise of social gaming, and the exhilarating world of live streaming. Get ready for an exciting journey! 🚀💥

1️⃣ Gaming Communities: More Than Just Online Connections

Gaming communities go beyond pixels on a screen; they are vibrant, diverse ecosystems where players come together, forge friendships, and create lasting memories. 🤝🌟 Whether it's a guild in your favorite MMORPG or a Discord server dedicated to your preferred game, gaming communities provide a sense of belonging and shared experiences. 🏰⚔️

As Hjorth et al. (2021) emphasize, these communities transcend geographical boundaries, allowing players from all walks of life to connect and collaborate. They foster a space for mutual support, knowledge sharing, and collaboration, amplifying the joy and excitement of gaming.

2️⃣ Social Gaming: Play Together, Stay Together! 👥🎮💞

The emergence of social gaming has revolutionized the way we interact with games and each other. 🌟🎮✨ From cooperative gameplay to massive multiplayer online worlds, social gaming encourages players to team up, strategize, and embark on epic adventures together. 🌟⚔️🚀

In their study on platformization in game development, Chia and Keogh (2020) highlight how social gaming blurs the line between virtual and real-life interactions. Through multiplayer experiences, players develop social skills, teamwork, and even forge lifelong friendships. It's incredible to witness how virtual worlds can bring people together like never before! 🌐💙

3️⃣ Live Streaming: Where Gaming Meets Entertainment 🎥🔴🎮

Live streaming platforms like Twitch have taken the gaming world by storm, transforming it into a thriving form of entertainment. 🌟🎬🎮✨ Gamers from all corners of the globe can now share their gameplay, engage with viewers, and build dedicated communities around their passion. It's a whole new level of experiencing games! 🌟🌍📺

In the book "Watch Me Play," Taylor (2018) explores the rise of game live streaming and its impact. Viewers can tune in to watch their favorite streamers showcase their skills, provide commentary, and even participate in interactive chats. It's an immersive and interactive experience that blurs the boundaries between player and spectator. 🎭📱💬

4️⃣ Embracing the #GamingCommunity 🌟🌐👥

Join the conversation and embrace the power of gaming communities! Share your gaming experiences, connect with fellow players, and discover new perspectives. Together, we can create a supportive and inclusive gaming culture that celebrates our shared love for games. 🎮❤️🌍 References Chia, A., Keogh, B., Leorke, D., & Nicoll, B. (2020). Platformisation in game development. Internet Policy Review, 9(4). https://doi.org/10.14763/2020.4.1515

Hjorth, L., Richardson, I., Davies, H., & Balmford, W. (2020). Exploring Play. Exploring Minecraft, 27–47. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-59908-9_2

Taylor, T. L. (2018). Watch Me Play Twitch and the Rise of Game Live Streaming. Princeton University Press.

[v1821anna]

🌟 Unveiling the Illusion: The Impact of Snapchat Filters on Digital Citizenship and Software Literacy 🌟

Привет всем на Tumblr! 📱✨ Today, I will dive into the fascinating yet complex world of Snapchat filters and their implications on digital citizenship and software literacy. Have you guys ever wondered how that cute puppy filter or the one that perfects your skin tone affects our perception of beauty and self-identity? Let's explore! 🐶

🔍 Snapchat's Reality Filter 🔍

Snapchat's Lenses, introduced in 2015, are more than just playful additions to our selfies. They're a tool that reshapes our digital identities, often aligning with narrow beauty standards (Baker, 2020). While offering a realm for creativity, these filters subtly endorse an idealized version of ourselves, urging us to conform to specific aesthetic norms. 🎭

🌐 Digital Adornment: More Than Just Fun 🌐

Snapchat filters serve as a form of digital adornment, allowing users to experiment with their appearances similar to makeup or fashion. But here's the twist: they often perpetuate conventional beauty ideals, modifying facial features to fit a certain mold – thinner, lighter, more 'perfect' (Barker, 2020). Isn't it intriguing how a simple app feature can reflect and reinforce societal beauty standards? 🤔

🤖 Machine Vision: Shaping Our Self-Perception 🤖

Snapchat employs facial detection tools that recognize and modify facial features in real-time, offering an altered reflection of ourselves. This 'machine vision' not only changes how we appear digitally but can also influence our self-perception and identity (Rettberg, 2017). When technology dictates what's 'beautiful,' it's crucial to question the algorithms behind the curtain. 🤳💭

🌍 A Global Phenomenon with Localized Effects 🌍

With millions engaging with these filters daily, the impact is global yet deeply personal. Users worldwide are navigating this digital landscape where augmented reality blurs the lines between the authentic and the altered. How does this influence our understanding of self and others in a diverse, interconnected world? ❤️

🧐 Critical Software Literacy: Understanding the Code Behind the Beauty 🧐

Developing a critical software literacy enables us to dissect the layers behind Snapchat's appealing facade. By understanding the code and algorithms that sculpt these filters, we empower ourselves to navigate digital spaces with awareness and autonomy, recognizing the fine line between enhancement and distortion (Rettberg, 2014). 🛠️📖

🔄 Feedback Loop: From User to Creator 🔄

Our engagement with filters doesn't end with usage; it feeds back into the system, influencing future designs and standards. As digital citizens, our choices can advocate for more inclusive and varied representations, pushing back against a one-size-fits-all beauty ideal (Baker, 2020). 💪🎨

🔚 Concluding Thoughts: Embracing Our Multifaceted Digital Selves

In the world of Snapchat filters, we're encouraged to explore, question, and redefine beauty. By understanding the tools at our disposal, we can use them to express our unique selves while challenging the norms they may promote. After all, in the vast spectrum of human beauty, shouldn't our digital selves be just as diverse? 🌈👤 #Snapchat #Filters #identity #self-reflection # References Barker, J. (2020). Making-up on mobile: The pretty filters and ugly implications of Snapchat. Fashion, Style & Popular Culture, 7(2), 207–221. https://doi.org/10.1386/fspc_00015_1

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

Rettberg, J. W. (2017). Biometric Citizens: Adapting Our Selfies to Machine Vision. Springer EBooks, 89–96. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-45270-8_10

[v1821anna]

🌟 Exploring the World of Body Modification 🌟

Ahoj všichni! Today, we're diving into the mesmerizing world of body modification, a practice that transcends time and culture, continually evolving in our modern society. Why do people alter their bodies, and what stories do these alterations tell? Let's unravel this together! 🌐✨

📜 A Glimpse into History 📜

Body modification isn't just a contemporary fad; it's a historical narrative that speaks volumes about human civilization. From ancient tribal tattoos to Egyptian piercings, these practices have been a means of expressing identity, status, and beauty throughout the ages (Lane, 2017). 📖🔍

🌍 Cultural Tapestry 🌍

Across the globe, body modification is a reflection of cultural beliefs and personal expressions. Whether it's the intricate tattoos of Polynesian tribes or the lip plates of the Mursi tribe in Ethiopia, each practice has its unique significance and beauty (Lane, 2017). In today's digital age, social media plays a pivotal role in shaping perceptions and trends around body modification (Carah & Dobson, 2016). 🌏🤳

💉 Today's Trends 💉

Modern body modification ranges from minimalist tattoos to elaborate body piercings. Social media platforms, particularly Instagram, have become showcases for these personal expressions, influencing trends and societal acceptance (Dorfman et al., 2018). 📸💉

🧠 Psychological Perspectives 🧠

Why do individuals opt for body modifications? It's a blend of self-expression, identity exploration, and sometimes, a form of healing or reclaiming one's body. The act of modifying one's body can be empowering, offering a sense of control and personal narrative (Balkan, 2017). 🧐💭

🤝 Ethical Considerations 🤝

The discourse around body modification is complex, intertwining with issues of cultural appropriation, body autonomy, and ethical practices within the modification industry (Lane, 2017). It's crucial to navigate these conversations with respect and awareness. ⚖️👥

📖 Transformation Tales 📖

Behind every modification is a story waiting to be told. From a simple tattoo commemorating a loved one to piercings that symbolize important life milestones, these changes often carry deep personal meanings (Lane, 2017). 📚❤️

🔚 Final Thoughts 🔚

Body modification is a multifaceted world, rich with history, culture, and personal significance. It's a form of art, a mode of self-expression, and a testament to individuality. What's your take on this expressive practice? Have you ever considered or undergone a body modification? Share your stories and thoughts below! ✍️💬

#BodyModification #Art #Expression #Culture #Identity #SelfExpression #SocialMedia References Balkan, A. (2017, January 23). The nature of the self in the digital age. FUTURIUM - European Commission. https://ec.europa.eu/futurium/en/content/nature-self-digital-age.html

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

Dorfman, R. G., Vaca, E. E., Mahmood, E., Fine, N. A., & Schierle, C. F. (2017). Plastic Surgery-Related Hashtag Utilization on Instagram: Implications for Education and Marketing. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 38(3), 332–338. https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjx120

Lane, D. C. (2017). Understanding body modification: A process-based framework. Sociology Compass, 11(7), e12495. https://doi.org/10.1111/soc4.12495

[v1821anna]

🌿 Navigating the Shift to Slow Fashion: A Conscious Choice for a Sustainable Future 🌍

In an era dominated by the rapid turnover of fast fashion, a more thoughtful and sustainable approach is gaining traction. Slow fashion isn't just about style; it's about making informed, ethical choices that resonate with our values as digital citizens. Let's delve deeper into the impacts of fast fashion and the transformative power of the slow fashion movement.

The Environmental Toll of Fast Fashion 🏭

Fast fashion's environmental impact is staggering. The industry is a major contributor to water pollution, with toxic dyes and chemicals from textile factories jeopardizing aquatic ecosystems and human health (Brewer, 2019). Furthermore, the production of synthetic fibers like polyester, a staple in fast fashion, introduces microfibers into our oceans, affecting marine life and potentially entering our food chain (Brewer, 2019).

The Ethical Imperative of Slow Fashion 🌿

The slow fashion movement advocates for a holistic approach to fashion, emphasizing environmental sustainability, ethical labor practices, and quality craftsmanship. Henninger et al. (2017) highlight the necessity of a circular economy in fashion, where resources are reused and recycled, minimizing waste and promoting sustainability. This paradigm shift challenges the industry's status quo, advocating for a future where fashion respects both people and the planet.

Influencers: Catalysts for Change 📱

Social media influencers have a pivotal role in shaping consumer perceptions and driving the slow fashion narrative. Their platforms can spotlight ethical brands, share sustainable fashion tips, and encourage followers to reconsider their fashion consumption habits (Lai et al., 2017). By aligning with the slow fashion ethos, influencers can inspire a broader audience to embrace sustainable practices, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

Consumer Perspectives and Accountability 👚

Understanding consumer perceptions is crucial in advancing the slow fashion movement. Lai et al. (2017) explore the diverse attitudes towards sustainable fashion, emphasizing the need for greater consumer education and awareness. As consumers become more informed, they are more likely to prioritize sustainability in their purchasing decisions, driving demand for ethical and eco-friendly fashion options.

Joining the Slow Fashion Revolution 🌍

Embracing slow fashion means choosing quality over quantity, valuing the craftsmanship behind each garment, and understanding the story of its production. It's a commitment to making fashion choices that align with our values of sustainability and ethical responsibility.

In Conclusion: Your Fashion, Your Impact 🌟

The shift to slow fashion is more than a trend; it's a movement towards a more sustainable world. By supporting slow fashion, we contribute to a healthier planet, promote fair labor practices, and foster a fashion industry that aligns with our values. #week6 #mda20009 #SlowFashion #EcoChic #Sustainability #ConsciousConsumerism

References 📚

Mark K. Brewer, ‘Slow Fashion in a Fast Fashion World: Promoting Sustainability and Responsibility’, Laws 2019, 8(4), 24

Claudia E. Henninger, Daniella Ryding, Panayiota J. Alevizou and Helen Goworek, ‘Introduction’ Sustainability in Fashion A Cradle to Upcycle Approach, edited by Henninger, C.E., Alevizou, P., Goworek, H., Ryding, D. (Palgrave: 2017).

Zhen Lai, Claudia E. Henninger and Panayiota J. Alevizou ‘An Exploration of Consumers’ Perceptions Towards Sustainable Fashion – A Qualitative Study in the UK’, in Sustainability in Fashion A Cradle to Upcycle Approach, edited by Henninger, C.E., Alevizou, P., Goworek, H., Ryding, D. (Palgrave: 2017)

World Wildlife Fund. (2019). Sustainable Agriculture: Cotton.

[v1821anna]

Bonjour les amis! Ready for a deep dive into the captivating world of digital citizenship and political engagement on social media? 🌐 Buckle up, because we're about to embark on a thought-provoking journey through this week's topics! 📚✨

What is digital citizenship? Digital citizenship refers to the competence to navigate digital environments in a manner that ensures safety and responsibility, while actively and respectfully participating in these spaces (Mossberger et al., 2010). So why we need to know about digital citizenship? A good digital citizen possesses the necessary skills and knowledge to utilise digital technologies in a constructive manner, enabling them to actively engage in society, communicate with others, and generate and consume digital content (NSW Department of Education, n.d.). Otherwise, we may engage in inappropriate behaviour in the digital realm.

Platformisation - when a "thing" become a "process" Platformisation refers to the process of converting social networking sites into social media platforms (Helmond, 2015). Platformisation refers to the transition from viewing "platforms" as physical entities to examining "platformisation" as a dynamic process (Nieborg & Poell, 2018). Through the process of platformisation, these sites evolve from a rudimentary state to increasingly intricate and sophisticated forms. Several of these websites have now become dominant players in their respective industries, such as Facebook or Twitter.

Trump versus Clinton: Amateurism versus Professionalism Hillary Clinton employed the strategy of professionalisation during her 2016 election campaign. Professionalisation refers to the process by which occupations strive to attain public recognition as professions, based on the extent to which they fulfil the supposed criteria (Smelser & Baltes, 2001). During that period, Hillary underwent a process of rebranding in order to present herself as more contemporary and fashionable, deviating from her typical image (Enli, 2017).

Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump in 2016 In addition to Hillary, Donald Trump employs amateurism as a deliberate strategy for his election campaign. This is due to Trump's background as a businessman and his lack of prior involvement in political campaigns, which enabled him to effectively capture media attention and counter prevailing trends (Enli, 2017). Therefore, emulating Hillary's professionalism carries significant risks due to her advantageous position as the spouse of a former president, which grants her access to a highly influential and experienced mentor. Below is a video about the process of the 2016 election:

When Twitter is Trump's weapon An interview with Trump after the election in 2016 reviewed that Trump's victory was based on his social media campagin. The finding in 2016 figured it out that there are around 80% of the tweets about Trump appear to come from the Democratic side of the political spectrum, which mean they are the supporter for Hillary (Müller et al., 2020). But this is a double-edged knife, since more people will know more about Trump, and this lead to the side effect that the authenticity he made is can be more effective than Hillary. Trump usally wrote his tweet, with 33% authenticity to 5% of Hillary. Imagine if Twitter didn't have the platformisation process, we may not see Trump at the White House in 2016.

#MDA20009 #DigitalCitizenship #Platformisation #Election #Trump&Clinton #SocialMedia #Twitter

References

Enli, G. (2017). Twitter as arena for the authentic outsider: exploring the social media campaigns of Trump and Clinton in the 2016 US presidential election. European Journal of Communication, 32(1), 50–61. https://doi.org/10.1177/0267323116682802

Helmond, A. (2015). The Platformization of the Web: Making Web Data Platform Ready. Social Media + Society, 1(2), 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1177/2056305115603080

Mossberger, K., Tolbert, C. J., & Mcneal, R. S. (2010). Digital citizenship : the internet, society, and participation. Mit Press.

Müller, K., Schwarz, C., & Fujiwara, T. (2020, October 30). How Twitter affected the 2016 presidential election. CEPR. https://cepr.org/voxeu/columns/how-twitter-affected-2016-presidential-election

Nieborg, D. B., & Poell, T. (2018). The platformization of cultural production: Theorizing the contingent cultural commodity. New Media & Society, 20(11), 4275–4292. https://doi.org/10.1177/1461444818769694

NSW Department of Education. (n.d.). About Digital Citizenship . Www.digitalcitizenship.nsw.edu.au. https://www.digitalcitizenship.nsw.edu.au/about

Smelser, N. J., & Baltes, P. B. (2001). International encyclopedia of the social & behavioral sciences. Elsevier. https://www.sciencedirect.com/referencework/9780080430768/international-encyclopedia-of-the-social-and-behavioral-sciences

[v1821anna]

Hola amigos! 👋 Let's dive into this week's exciting topics on reality TV and its dynamic relationship with digital publics. From the formation of micro publics to thought-provoking discussions, I've got a lot to unpack. So, let's get started! 📺💻🌐

Digital Publics 🫂 and Reality TV 📺:

Digital publics refer to the online platforms where people gather to participate in conversations and influence viewpoints (Schäfer, 2015). Within the domain of reality TV, these microcommunities emerge based on particular shows and platforms.

Paradoxes 🛡️⚔️ of Reality TV Audiences:

Reality TV consistently garners high ratings, however, surveys indicate that it is frequently regarded as the least preferred genre. Fascinating, isn't it? Indeed, a significant number of individuals articulate a preference for a reduced amount of reality television programming. This genre amalgamates exaggerated emotions and deviant behaviours, captivating viewers while simultaneously eliciting criticism (Milne, 2024).

Now, let's move on to some key 🗝️ insights that emerged from our topic:

Social Media 🌐 Multiplatform Engagement:

The advent of social media has fundamentally transformed the nature of interaction between reality TV stars and their fans. Through the utilisation of podcasts, recaps, conventions, and cameos, the range of possibilities is boundless. The shift has broadened markets and enhanced audience engagement, resulting in a more immersive viewer experience than ever before (Arcy, 2018).

Reality TV's Impact on Digital Publics:

Reality television programmes generate digital communities that transcend mere entertainment. These platforms serve as arenas for daily political discourse, where conversations about significant societal matters are prominently featured. The potency of reality TV resides in its capacity to ignite discussions on subjects such as immigration, racism, gender, sexuality, and discrimination (Graham & Hajru, 2011). Presented here is a video that exposes the true nature of reality TV shows.

Importance of Reality TV Discussions:

Discussions about reality TV extend beyond the evaluation of participants' conduct. They explore profound societal concerns, such as celebrity, authority, entitlement, and social disparities. Online platforms such as forums, blogs, and social media offer opportunities for critical analysis and cultural exploration, thereby enhancing our comprehension of society as a whole (Deller, 2020).

To summarise, the convergence of reality TV and digital publics presents an intriguing amalgamation of entertainment, politics, and social involvement. Engaging in these discussions enables us to question our perspectives, expand our knowledge, and acquire valuable understanding of our current reality.

What are your thoughts on reality TV and its impact on digital publics? Have you engaged in any thought-provoking discussions related to your favorite shows? Let's keep the conversation going in the comments section! 🗣️💬

Stay tuned for more exciting topics and discussions coming your way!

#MDA20009 #RealityTV #DigitalPublics #SocialMedia #discussion References Arcy, J. (2018). The digital money shot: Twitter wars, The Real Housewives, and transmedia storytelling. Celebrity Studies, 9(4), 487–502. https://doi.org/10.1080/19392397.2018.1508951

Deller, R. A. (2020). Reality television : the television phenomenon that changed the world. Emerald Publishing.

Graham, T., & Hajru, A. (2011). Reality TV as a trigger of everyday political talk in the net-based public sphere. European Journal of Communication, 26(1), 18–32. https://doi.org/10.1177/0267323110394858

Schäfer, M. S. (2015). Digital public sphere. The international encyclopedia of political communication, 15, 1-7. Chicago

[v1821anna]

Exploring the impact of Tumblr in shaping digital communities Hey there, Tumblr newbies! 👋 Join me as we explore the captivating realm of digital communities and the significant impact that Tumblr has in shaping them. 🌟 Let's dive into the fascinating world of the public sphere, the ever-changing landscape of blogging, the awesome features of Tumblr, and how it has shaped user experiences and activism. Alright, let's get started! ✨

Sooo, what is public sphere? The public sphere is a concept that describes social and technological changes in society. It seeks to comprehend the role of mass media in democracy and social relationships (McKee, 2005). It is a place where private individuals can come together as a public, using reason to foster critical knowledge and effect political change. While its existence is still debated, media scholars argue that the traditional public sphere has given way to micro-publics, or digital communities (Bruns et al., 2012). Hmm, what about blogging 🤔? Since its inception in the middle of the 1990s, blogging has been instrumental in promoting self-expression and expanding the public domain. The term "weblog" was first used on Justin Hall's personal homepage, and it was eventually abbreviated to "blog" (Holbrook et al., 2006). Blogs are now a potent tool for exchanging thoughts, viewpoints, and experiences. Here's a short video talking about the history of blogging:

Now, let's talk about Tumblr! Tumblr was established in 2007 and has undergone several ownership changes. Verizon's acquisition of Yahoo in 2017 led to controversies and ultimately resulted in Automattic (owner of WordPress) acquiring Tumblr in 2019 (Pilipets and Paasonen, 2022). Tumblr's anonimity provides a secure environment for marginalised communities, including LGBTQI communities 🏳️‍🌈, to freely express themselves. An additional potent tool on Tumblr, hashtagging facilitates the discovery of content and community development. In contrast to alternative social media platforms, Tumblr enables users to peruse content without the requirement of following one another (Keller, 2019).

With regard to user experiences, Tumblr has been instrumental in promoting feminist activism and critique. Specifically, adolescent females have utilised Tumblr as a platform to participate in various forms of activism, wherein they voice apprehensions and bring attention to social issues (Keller, 2019). By employing social media platforms strategically, these young individuals have showcased their initiative, discernment, and expertise (Keller, 2019).

To summarise, Tumblr has become a dynamic medium that influences virtual communities and empowers individuals to express themselves. Its distinctive characteristics, including hashtagging and anonymity, contribute to the emergence of a variety of communication genres. #MDA20009 #digitalcommunities #publicsphere #blogging #Tumblr #activism #swinburne References Bruns, A., Highfield, T., & Lind, R. A. (2012). Blogs, Twitter, and breaking news: The produsage of citizen journalism. Produsing theory in a digital world: The intersection of audiences and production in contemporary theory, 80(2012), 15-32. Holbrook, D., Bird, R., & Enfield, J. (2006). Theorizing the Diary Weblog. http://www.ourboldhero.com/research/theorizing.pdf

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

McKee, A. (2005). The Public Sphere. Cambridge University Press.

Pilipets, E., & Paasonen, S. (2022). 'Nipples, memes, and algorithmic failure: NSFW critique of Tumblr censorship'. New Media & Society, 24(6), 1459–1480. https://doi.org/10.1177/1461444820979280 #MDA20009 #digitalcommunities #publicsphere #blogging #Tumblr #activism