Online Identity and Community

Han states that “the act of writing…establishes Being for a subject on the Internet.” But what if you do not contribute content to the Internet and instead only lurk? Or, a more interesting question, what if you misrepresent yourself?

We got on this topic in Tuesday’s class, and the first thing that came to mind was Brad Paisley’s song, “Online” in which an online user makes himself more attractive online by using different photo and making up facts about his interests and accomplishments.

Brad Paisley - Online (Official Music Video). Watch more top selected videos about: Brad Paisley, 5th Gear

The Internet has transformed the “traditional rules of membership in a community” according to Han, and I agree. Most online groups or communities allow easy entry. An individual simply shows interest in joining, clicks a couple of buttons and has access to the group’s content and members. Offline, we require presence, application and often a fee to join an organization or a group.

The new rules of community have both advantages and disadvantages. Organizations and communities are now able to connect with individuals regardless of space and time. My church views this as a benefit as they are able to share Sunday messages with individuals around the world.

Security is a concern of the new online communities. You can no longer know everyone who belongs to your community, and a stranger from across the country – or the globe - now has access to a piece of your personal information

Another glaring disadvantage is the quality of the community declines. Individuals do not have to be committed to the organization or contribute at all to be considered members of the online group. 

Unfortunately, this mentality is translating to offline organizations, too. Younger generations who have always belonged to online communities are not as dedicated to their offline counterparts. Young college graduates want to be a part of their alumni association, but don’t dare ask them to write a check or attend a meeting. They’ll contribute their thoughts online, thank you very much.

I have also observed this in my church. As a large church, you would assume the administration would have no difficulty signing up volunteers. Yet every year, they practically beg for more people to volunteer and get personally involved.

Our identities online are created by the content we post about ourselves and the communities we join. However, we must remain committed and active to our affiliations – both off and online – in order to create and maintain communities that are worth joining.