Final Paper

Behavioral Transformations in New Spaces:

Cyber-Impact on Gender/Sexual Minorities in Rural Societies

With all the advances in digital communications, it is important not to overlook the significant cultural impact that cyberspace has had on misrepresented groups in rural communities? For example: how has cyberspace improved the everyday lives of gender and sexual minorities in rural areas (an often overlooked or ignored group), otherwise not possible with television or radio? More specifically, how has the Internet transformed the behavior of gender and sexual minorities (regarding self-representation in public spaces), who are isolated or live in rural areas? And, more importantly why should we care? Society should be more concerned with the positive aspects of cyberspace, in regards to providing online representational opportunities for gender and sexual minorities, who are isolated from their community in some way or who are residing in rural areas, because such opportunities would otherwise be unavailable through more conventional or traditional forms of media: resulting in negative consequences for the whole of society.

Cyberspace has transformed the everyday lives of gender and sexual minorities, living in rural America or otherwise isolated situations, by enabling these misrepresented groups representational opportunities online such as: forming social communities and support groups. The development of the World Wide Web has, in effect, uniquely empowered isolated individuals with the ability to “be themselves” in new public spaces online, which is not often possible in small towns or restricted living conditions, especially for gender and sexual minorities. Attitudes in many small towns are not always favorable to transgender and gay individuals. As a result, these marginalized groups often feel the need to suppress their true personalities out of fear of condemnation or worse.

The anonymity of cyberspace has provided new public spaces online where homosexuals and trans-gendered individuals can represent themselves more accurately regarding the true nature of their personalities. According to Stuart Hall, anonymity plays a vital role social networking online. Hall states: “Indeed, the Internet seems made to ague postmodernism’s case, as online anonymity make it necessary for identity to be signified in active rather than more passive ways”. (p. 47). No longer must the phrase, “just be yourself”, be reserved for those who “fit in”, or need to be taken for granted just by the vast majority. For many isolated gay and trans-gender people, the opportunity to be themselves online is more than a new experience, but a cherished privilege: made possible only through the Internet.

For many isolated gender and sexual minorities, the concept of freedom: representing oneself online through an alternate identity (such as an avatar) takes on a whole different meaning. It can literally represent liberation from oppression. For them, personal Internet representations or online identities are truly more realistic experiences and depictions of one’s “disembodied self” than those embodied in meatspace. As Hall points out: “[…] “profiles” and avatars they create to literally embody themselves in disembodied spaces become less about performing a cross-gender or cross-racial alternative or “passing” self to deploy in public communities and more about expressing diasporic, ambivalent, intersectional selves to use within closed communities.” (p. 47). Hall’s statement here is vital to the argument here that gender and sexual minorities that are isolated from the community (for whatever reason) often feel pressure to “pass” in society. However, online sites transcend mere “passing” or expressions of the “performative self” by allowing an individual to “embody” a more truthful representation of the self. (p. 47).

Alison Adams in “The Cybercultures Reader” supports the truth of disembodied experiences, as real psychic events. A direct quote from Adams reads: “Cyberspace is a shared virtual reality, a ‘consensual hallucination’ where the body that one choose to enter within cyberspace had bodily sensations and can travel in the virtual reality”. This not only suggests that such experiences are as real as in the physical (meatspace), but also point to the future of technology that may be beneficial to gender/sexual minorities that are quadriplegics or who may not have the abilities to speak. I was knew just such a person from Tacoma, WA. He was a very nice young man in the prime of his life and his only social outlet was through cyberspace. I often think of him when discussions of new digital possibilities arise.

Online: support groups; social networks; informative sites (where one can get answers to sensitive questions and post personal experiences to help others), and Internet activism provide the only and much-needed outlet for social involvement to isolated gender and sexual minorities. The Internet has numerous sites of this nature that can be accessed at will important for social interactions and representations of our “performative self”, unlike more traditional forms of media. As Hall states: “[t]he figure of the performative self is central to the scholarship on online discourse and has been part of the argument establishing the Internet as a postmodern communicative space”. (p. 47). Therefore, the Internet has become an integral, vital, and necessary part of modern communication and all the more reason that all factions of society have the opportunity to participate. The closest comparison in meatspace would be television or radio talk shows where individuals can call in anonymously, but the interaction are brief and limited (in time, space and personal information). The telephone can by used for social interaction (verbally), but even it doesn’t allow individuals to form intimate cohesive groups of like-minded individuals where they can share photos, videos, and post information.

The political forum is another place in cyberspace that can uniquely accommodate social issues that are relevant and important to such minority groups. Richard Kahn and Douglas Keller wrote: “[…] emergent information and communication technologies (ICTs) have facilitated oppositional cultural and political movements and provided possibilities for the sort of progressive socio-political change and struggle that is an important dimension of contemporary cultural politics. (p. 618). This statement not only supports the argument that socio-political activities are not only beneficial to gender and sexual minorities, but to society in general.

While many may argue that cyberspace is a valuable and unique resource to isolated gender and sexual minorities (misrepresented groups), others, however, may argue “so what” if cyberspace provides minorities with options? The Web provides everyone with options unique to cyberspace. What makes cyberspace more unique to some groups than to others, and how does cyberspace’s impact on one culture impact others? And, why should I care? These deliberately pointed questions have equally decisive answers.

The facts are that cyberspace benefits society as a whole by providing these social services (representational outlets) to misrepresented groups in isolated situations. Choices, such as those provided in cyberspace, are key to alleviating the hopelessness and desperation that so often plagues the less fortunate or downtrodden of our society. We can see evidence of this in the unusually high suicide rates of gender and sexual minorities (misrepresented groups) whether or not they live in rural meatspace communities. The numerous support groups, social networks, and informative sites online can offer solutions, which were nonexistent prior to the development of the web, to serious problems in society.

The empowerment of gay and trans-gendered groups through online communication is further supported by Kahn and Kellner in the statements: “Communities of color, gay and lesbian groups, and many other under-represented or marginal political communities have set up their own e-mail lists, websites, blogs and are now a thriving and self-empowered force on the Internet”. (p. 621). This would included all gay and trans-gendered individuals that have access to the internet, regardless of where they live, supporting the argument that cyberspace is closing the gap between disenfranchised gender and sexual minority groups in rural society or otherwise isolated from the sense of community.

Some may argue who cares if cyberspace provides representational outlets to misrepresented minority groups? Online gender and sexual minorities perpetuate their own groups’ misrepresentation on the Internet by the way the present themselves as individuals. Others may argue that it is not how online identities are personally presented, but the social impact that the Internet has within otherwise isolated communities. In other words, it is the impact that cyberspace has had on the cultures of gender and sexual minorities: transforming them from loose-knit isolated individuals to close-knit, online communities. And some may even question the existence of cyberspace.

In Cyberspace: First Steps, Michael Benedikt defines cyberspace as: “Cyberspace: A new universe, a parallel universe created and sustained by the world’s computers and communication lines”. (p. 19). This strongly suggests that the cyberspace is just another realm, and as such, is open to the possibilities for the benefits of people from all walks of life. The number of cyber representational opportunities for gender/sexual minorities are sure to continue to evolve, improving lives for all misrepresented communities, as well, in ways that have not even been thought of. The future possibilities of self realizations in the digital realm of communication (cyberspace) could never have been made possible in mainstream media.

Presentations: 4-27-10

Michael’s paper is going to be about Cyber Crimes and how information gets stolen online. Cyber crimes happen faster and easier than crimes in physical space, often go undetected longer and can be committed by anyone. Desperation is the motive and can happen when least expected. There are also more ways of harassment online. The solutions Michael gave are: locking laptops; not giving addresses out online; password requirement; privacy protection program; theft lock; and a regular credit report. Another thing Michael may want to mention is not leaving one’s laptop unguarded. Someone can always walk off with it. James mentioned not sending naked photos because they can always be posted online and would be there forever. I am sorry Michael experienced cyber theft and am glad that it eventually worked out for him.

Dan’s paper will be about Exploring the Correlation Between Video Games and Virtual Communities. His thesis is essentially the notable correlation between learning principles and online gaming, referencing Gee’s principles of Learning. Learning principles makes gaming better and allow master gamers to build upon other masters. Video games enhance online environments and may account for the increasing popularity of gaming. I am not a gamer but the challenged and learning principles as described by Dan make it sound more appealing.

Kristin’s paper is essentially the Hegemonic White Masculine Environment On The Internet, which I think sounds like a fascinating subject. She also spoke about fragmented implementation of K-7 program H.O.P.E., information literacy, cyber-bullying, over-sharing information, and sexting.

Derek’s thesis is about Mobile Technology, primarily cell phones and their increasing popularity and access in rural areas. One of Derek’s references is Silva and how the virtual community migrates, educational barriers, and McCann’s information age. I think it is almost impossible to live without a cell phone today.

Brent’s paper is on How Online Activity Changes Us. Some of the ways that Brent mentions was security and distance, license to say and do things we wouldn’t ordinarily, online sexual perversion, alternate identity, ability to lie easier, and how our society is becoming transparent. As part of the older generation I will remain more cautious about my personal information online.

Cynthia’s topic is Race and Ethnicity online: Representations in Cyberspace. Cynthia will discuss how cyberspace gives underrepresented groups (women, minorities, GLBT) more choices about representation that they wouldn’t otherwise have in traditional media. For example: stereotypes still exist in T.V. I especially appreciated Cynthia’s statement that underrepresented groups are able to create spaces online that are not governed by the same issues. I wish that she were going to include more about the GLBT groups and how they are represented online, which is one of the most misrepresented and misunderstood groups in my opinion.

Josh’s thesis is on Internet Activism as a Necessary Tool for Physical Activism in the Real World. One of the examples that Josh gave was WTO “Battle In Seattle” that had a negative impact on the residence in my neighborhood because of police discrimination and abuses of power. Maybe Josh could mention how Internet Activism was necessary for some to physically avoid police abuse so that they could get home without being knocked down by fire hoses in the streets.

Neil’s paper is on the Advantages of Smart Phones: Narrowing the Digital Divide. He mentioned that the Internet is becoming more available in underdeveloped countries and our dependency on cell phones. I am glad to hear this technology is being used in places like the African continent to combat famine.

YouTube’s Unique Roles InPolitical Activism and the Perpetuation of Hate

My Argument:

• Research question: As a method of digital communication, what has been YouTube’s effect on cyber-activism and hate speech?
• Thesis: YouTube has revolutionized political activism and, in doing so, it has also uniquely contributed to the perpetuation of hate, however inadvertently.
• Hypothesis: Without intelligent, rational-thinking individuals (those whose shared goal is ending inhumanity globally within religions and governments), YouTube will cease to be a viable method of disseminating information around the world, and will merely be a sounding-board for ages old prejudices that will perpetuate hatred on a much grander scale.

Why/How:

YouTube provides private citizens a means in which to participate in political activism globally, by enabling audio-visual expressions of personal, political agendas (potentially reaching millions) from the privacy of one’s home. The promotion of political awareness and political opinion (via YouTube) is extending beyond the realm of street activists and protestors, to include the everyday mom and pop sitting on their sofa: transforming the handheld messages of traditional political-activism within meat-space, to the onscreen, digital communication methods of cyber-activism within cyberspace that reach vast audiences by comparison. Although, YouTube has revolutionized political activism, in doing so, it has also uniquely contributed to the perpetuation of hate, however inadvertently.

Unfortunately, YouTube can actually diminish the voice of activism and perpetuate hate propaganda on a grand scale, because it is often used as a mere sounding board for opinion-based ideologies (often steeped in religion)  - often leading to ignorance and subsequent human suffering, and incredulity – rather than a forum to disseminate credible, fact-based knowledge, thereby spreading enlightenment and improving humanity.  Cyber-activism has great potential for diminishing the perpetuation of hate and ignorance worldwide through: the knowledge of science; a term that Dr. Hoch calls “substantial evidence-based thinking”; and bringing global awareness to issues of inhumanity and injustice present within many religions and governments. The civic arena should be reserved for “evidence-based thinking”. Unsubstantiated personal beliefs (based on little or no evidence) have no place in cyber-activism and will only fuel hatred globally.

Digital communication has given mew meaning to courage that is unique to cyber-activism. Courage redefined is acknowledging that respect and politeness have no place in inhumane and unjust behavior (religious or otherwise), and to call it what it is or risk perpetuating hatred. The key is to develop an appreciation for humility in lack of our own ignorance and owning up to the deplorable conditions within this society. Cyber-activism provides the perfect platform to combat the perpetuation of hate globally, and the only way that can be achieved is by setting an example for the rest of the world by ending inhumane and unjust civil actions based on unsubstantiated beliefs (as evidenced by recent events by religious extremists in the U.S. that are trying to force their religious doctrine upon the rest of us) before we condemn other countries of religious extremism.

Specific examples are:

• Racism/bigotry and YouTube: Tea Party protestors and U.S. Healthcare Reform
• Religious extremism and YouTube: Proposition 8 in California and gay rights activism

Plan/Strategy:

I will examine these recent events in history to show the link between; digital communication, cyber-activism, and online identity, and how this connection perpetuates hate through their unique relationship to YouTube.

Support:

Theories that I will argue for and against:

1.)  YouTube is uniquely suited for cyber-activism due to its ability to provide the private citizen (worldwide) the means to be heard globally and the potential to make a difference.

2.)  Cyber-activism, as often expressed on YouTube, reduces YouTube to a mere sounding board for opinion-based ideologies, and is often irrational (steeped in religious beliefs or cultural bias) instead of factual knowledge. Irrationality can diminish the voice of activism and reason leading to mistrust, resentment, and the agitation of ages-old prejudices perpetuating hate around the world.

3.)  Cyber-activism can help end global hatred by putting an end to the injustices and inhumane practices in this country. The U.S. serves as an example for the rest of the world and digital communication has given mew meaning to the word courage that is unique to cyber-activism. Courage redefined is acknowledging that respect and politeness have no place in inhumane and unjust behavior (religious or otherwise), and to call it what it is or risk perpetuating hatred.

Annotated Bibliographies

Hock, Steven. “Class discussion”. History 102: Washington State University 1-12-10.

Nakamura, Lisa. “Name of Article.” Digitizing Race: Visual Cultures of the Internet.

Published: University of Minnesota: Electronic mediations, 2008.

Volume 23. Pgs.?.

Raghavan, Ramya. July 22, 2009. Digital Activism On YouTube. 4-25-10.

<http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2009/07/digital-activism-on-youtube.html>.

http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2009/07/digital-activism-on-youtube.html.

McCaughey, Martha; Ayers, Michael. 2003. Cyber-activism: Online Activism in Theory an Practice: A. 4-25-10.

<http://books.google.com/books?id=KHCjMkNRAkYC&pg=PA103&lpg=PA103&dq=Cyberactivism+hate+perpetuation+theory&source=bl&ots=Nt-V3RD_Tf&sig=NZU7aOZPd4xuetZBUcdLhZsAyEg&hl=en&ei=E-XUS8_7HZHgtgP5qtHqCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CAYQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q&f=false.>

http://books.google.com/books?id=KHCjMkNRAkYC&pg=PA103&lpg=PA103&dq=Cyberactivism+hate+perpetuation+theory&source=bl&ots=Nt-V3RD_Tf&sig=NZU7aOZPd4xuetZBUcdLhZsAyEg&hl=en&ei=E-XUS8_7HZHgtgP5qtHqCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CAYQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q&f=false. This excerpt discusses various theories of online activism and how it can actually diminish the activist’s voice and perpetuate hate propaganda. It also mentions the unreliability of information within cyber-politics and how it actually reinforces deeply held hatred.

Many more to come (too many to list here)

Thesis Presentations (4-20-10 & 4-22-10)

Mark’s argument concerns online enable communities, cyberspace and the environment. One of the examples he was thinking of using is the Love Canal incident, but Julie mentioned that virtual communities, mobile technologies, and Internet activism exist and that he doesn’t need to give history of abuses. Mark also mentioned computer-mediated cyberspace such as electronic lobbying and cyber enabled tactics like Ecosnoop, which I found to be a little frightening if used deviously. Do we really need an application like Ecosnoop to report on each other? It may cut down on the number of police needed, but again this is talking about the history of cyber abuses. Maybe Mark could focus his argument more on cyber-activism and how that is uniquely affecting the environment.

Sara’s proposal concerns how people present themselves differently in cyberspace. For example an individual may behave less self-consciously in meatspace surrounded by their peers. Cyberspace social networking sites, such as Facebook, are public forums where people are more self-conscious of how they act. Sara spoke of how some people feel that they may be judged more harshly, and by whom, on a site like Facebook. Sherry Turkle is an academic that Sara will use to support her argument. Turkle talks about how social networking sites give people the opportunity to edit and therefore portray themselves more favorably in a public forum. However, I agree with Sara that people seem to be more open when there is an element of anonymity, which concerns my chosen topic of Internet communication as it relates to political activism. Sara also plans to use personal surveys, which I look forward to reading.

Cassie’s thesis concerns social networking sites, specifically Woogiworld and A Really Different Place and the classroom. Cassie will argue that teachers and students should utilize these types of sites in the classroom to enhance the learning of different content areas. Not only do these sites enhance learning, but they also draw in the students who aren’t as engaged in classroom learning. I appreciate her argument as positive, pro-active approach to help make learning more fun and interactive. WoogiWorld was created for the purpose of educating kids on proper Internet behavior by navigating through challenges, according to Cassie’s research. A Really Different Place focus’ on a students writing, and Facebook may help younger students benefit more because they may not be as familiar with engaging in conversations with friends online and are taught proper online etiquette. I find Cassie’s argument encouraging from the perspective of cyber-activism and personal conduct in the political arena. I think that Cassie’s paper will be a positive portrayal of future Internet conduct by online users and I look forward to reading it.

On Thursday (4-22-10) Mark proposed World of Warcraft (WOW): The Cost of Access. Mark talked about Blizzard and WOW – the largest massive multiplayer online (MMO) – and how changes to WOW appeal to more people and how that in itself creates a fractured community. For example,  players can survive but not thrive in WOW without social interactions because the games challenges have been removed or diminished. Mark reported that the lack of challenges causes disintegrates community of practice and that guild communities are fragile by nature. Less challenges also affect the ability to learn and create skill gap between leveling and end game.

Brittany then proposed to do her paper on Mobile Location-Based Advertizing and how it differs from traditional marketing methods. New media direct marketing on mobile phones has replaced throwaway advertisements (posters) with pop-up messages and the conveniency of being connected to everything. On the downside many people don’t like pop-ups on cell phones. Some of the fears that Brittany mentioned are the abilities to track what one does, spam, and please rob me sites. Advantages to buyers are convenience, privacy, easy anywhere there is GPS available. The business advantage is that it builds customer relations. Brittany’s argument is: rise of social networking sites led people to change the way they think about privacy.

Dena spoke of Cyber-bullying and how social networking sites are not policed. There is an increase in these types of cases in courtrooms and privacy issues. Personal disclosures make anyone an inadvertent target and kids can’t get away from bullying even in the home. Dena mentioned the Communication Decency Act: Sect. 230 and The Good Samaritan Clause that allows people to not be responsible for a sites contents. It was also mentioned that no one single governing body can protect citizens from cyber-bullying because of infringement issues on ones freedom of speech. Julie suggested that Dena focus on: social networking sites: you are on your own.

Michelle talked about humans and computer interaction in her thesis: interfaces that have seamless transitions from reality and virtual reality and vise versa. Studies of interaction between humans and computers are important because it minimizes barriers. I agree that the change in scenery gradually being missed, which accounts for the success of internet activism.

Thesis Presentations (4-16-10)

Katie proposed the topic Digital Divide In Low Income Schools in which she talked about bridging the digital divide in two phases. Phase I: Bridging the Knowledge Divide, by educating teachers on the importance of closing the digital gap and how to get online help for their students. Katie suggests that teachers create a technology club for the students and use technical knowledge in everything that they teach. Phase II: Bridging the Access Divide is about technology programs for low-income families (providing computers and printers), and making the most of the underutilized library system.  Katie also suggested creating an open lab night at libraries and teachers helping parents to learn new technologies in order to help their children. As someone who’s chosen topic is digital communication and the perpetuation of hate and violence, I think that the more we can get students involved in their local libraries the better, and using computers sounds like a great way to achieve that and to get the parents involved. It sounds like a win, win situation.

Beau’s proposal is about Gaming: the Final Destination. Beau sections his argument into different sub-topics. The first section includes aspects of gaming that your mother knows such as: it causes brain damage; it’s a waste of time; it causes depression; and gaming is too violent and disturbing. The second section mentions things you mother doesn’t know about gaming such as: technology feeds off gaming; gamers can earn a lot of money; and gaming technologies can save lives. In Beau’s third section: so what, he mentions that digital technology has permanently changed culture and talks about the Davinci robot and remote surgery. Julie suggested that Beau focus his argument on the fact that technology feeds off of gaming. From the perspective of digital communication and discrimination, hopefully new advancements in gaming technologies can bring gamers from different parts of the world and different cultures together. Perhaps combining digital gaming and skype could help us all get to know each other in ways never before possible.

James’ proposal is about College Grads and Gaming, where he mentions how humans learn, why we learn and how to learn better. In his argument James says that gaming gets a bad rap and that it has many virtues. Gaming helps us perform multi-visual tasks, helps us retain knowledge and 3dimmensional image recognition. Video games can be used in politics to raise funds and helps bring knowledge and access to all ages, which is a good thing since most college grads like playing video games. Video game technologies integrated with important and relevant topics on college campus’ could be a powerful tool.

Hans’ proposed essay is about Social Networks Bridging the Digital Chasm in which the digital gap is being closed by social interactions involving technologies. Access to tech one in the same and technology is leveling the playing field between the classes in the process: social connections are provided through networking; the value of the Internet is the content of social networking; and the creation and preservation of public spaces on line. I personally appreciated his statement that the poor are becoming digitally literate. Literacy as we all know is a key element in combating hatred, violence, and discrimination.

Spencer spoke about how Gaming Generates Better Soldiers, in which he mentions the correlations or effects of video games and how they entice people to sign-up.  In his argument Spencer talks about the false impressions before soldiers join up and the realities such as the development of bad habits during boot camp. The pros and cons of training simulators are discussed such as: simulations are cheaper and are an introduction to real life; simulators can desensitize soldiers and cause internal and external stress. I don’t know that training simulators are gradually replacing real life war game. My son participates in playing war with real bullets and real guns (once a month) as a marine lance corporal at Camp Pendleton near San Diego. Next month he will spend 3 weeks of marksmanship training in Idaho. I know first hand that the training he is receiving (gaming and real life) is in no way doing anything to end the perpetuation of online hatred, violence, or discrimination. His mother and I are continually reminding him that some of the actions of the other soldiers and his superiors are not ethical, moral, or legal even for the U.S. Military.

Caprica City

This site successfully mimics a real online newspaper through effective page design, text arrangement, and font selection. Its muted sense of color and use of gray scale graphics with a splash of color on smaller key elements reflect the serious tone and understated elegance that is currently appropriate for this type of publication. With some exception, the photos used are of real images and the information banner across the top and left side rail are familiar to newspaper readers. The side buttons used are appropriately conservative in style similar to a reversed sub-head or captions. Its contents are topics that can be found in real online newspapers such as: News, Lifestyle, Sports, Entertainment, Opinion, and Politics listed in the side rail and game scores, weekly events, and the weather forecast in the information bar at top.

The headline is clean, solid black, all caps, and is a semi-serif font that is easy on the eye with a nice, soft drop-shadow. However attractive the pages may look, there are visual clues to the true nature of its content. The heading itself is deceptively clean and simple, yet emotes a sense of the sinister. The name CAPRICAN has a negative connotation depicting mistrust and the font (as clean as it is) can appeal to conservative and liberal alike. It is classic, yet contemporary, but deliberately pointed like the thorn on a blackberry bush.

The body copy is also not the traditional serif font of newsprint, but online it is so much easier and attractive to read in this smaller font-size and gray ink. There is also a nice clean contrast between sub-headings and body copy. This is all part of this publication deception: to entice the reader. Once the reader begins to read one of the articles the sinister nature and less than moral purpose behind it can be revealed. It contains language that is offensive to some and sarcastic in nature.

Don’t Drink The Tea!

The most recent instance of Internet-enabled political activism would have to be the tea bag protesters. This controversial group has been all over the Internet and the mainstream news and is hardly considered a sub-culture of which Kahn and Kellner speak. Many in this group represent political and religious-militant, extremist organizations and their sympathizers. Although these groups no longer make up a majority in the U.S. many non-the-less still consider their views mainstream.  Although this movement was sparked by Obama’s health-care debate, it is obviously about much more.

In addition to spreading vitriol over the Internet, these extremists have been on every major news network including CNN and MSNBC, as well as the right-wing propaganda machine: the Fox channel.  It is clear by their rhetoric and hatred that their fears revolve around progressive issues and attitudes in general (especially those that counter their religious, conservative, right-wing agenda). Comments such as: “we need to reload”, on T.V. and on the Internet by various politicians is reckless and irresponsible.

It is just another elitist scare tactic to perpetuate anti-Obama, anti-gay marriage, anti-abortion, and anti-healthcare rhetoric by extremists that do not fully understand the issues. The outrage from the protestors on the Internet is even more vicious than that shown on T.V.  There are hate sites on the web dedicated to dehumanizing all progressive thinking Americans as God hating murderers. Some depict racial cartoons of Obama and promote gay-bashing as well as Nazi symbolism. Last I checked this was a free country: a democratic republic and not a theocracy.

This fact seems to be lost, forgotten or ignored by the teabag protestors. Last night on MSNBC Rachael Maddow reported on this growing trend of religious extremism in the U.S. (referring to teabag protestors). Finally, someone in the media is calling it what it is! MSN’s Keith Olberman recently commented on a New York Times article, which claims that the tea baggers are mostly wealthier conservatives that are out of touch with main stream views and majority opinion in the U.S., because they already have theirs (so to speak) and don’t want theirs taxes going up.

An Internet article commented on the NY Times pole saying: “So this core of Tea Party activists that Faux “News” celebrates and relentlessly tries to characterize as a popular uprising, when in reality 18% of Americans support the Tea Party Movement and a core of only 4% are active participants”.< http://www.dailykos.com/story/2010/4/15/0648/12754>. The NY Times poll also says that these white, educated activists think that their taxes are fair, however they don’t trust having a black president, and do not think that Sarah Palin has the qualifications to be president. It also says that most of them are over age 45 and support Medicare and Social Security, yet they are rallying for smaller government. So it is not about fear of socialism. It is about the changing demographic in the U.S. By 2025 whites will be a minority in the U.S. while Islam continues to grow in popularity.

What is Cyberspace?

In Michael Benedikt’s article: Cyberspace, First Steps, he attempts to define cyberspace through a list of ten possible explanations that include its’: purposes, accessibility, dimensions, and location. As intriguing as these explanations may seem they are not definitive or conclusive in and of themselves. Each is elusive regarding the tangibility of cyberspace, which begs the question: does cyberspace really exist and are the following ten statements true? As we will see, the realm of cyberspace does in fact exist and there is truth in each of Benedikt’s definitions of it, but attempts to explain cyberspace defy reason and logic because it is tantamount to putting limits on the infinite.

Benedikt’s first definition of cyberspace: “a new and parallel universe”, is the most convincing analogy of the ten because it is conceptually universal as it encompasses each of the other definitions. (p. 19). Cyberspace exists as a parallel universe, in the sense that it resides among us as an unseen realm outside of the physical world. Although it is a separate realm from the physical, it is connected to it and accessible at will through computers. Author, James Q. Jacobs agrees with this analogy in his article: Cyberspace is a Parallel World, A Metaphor Analysis, in which he compares cyberspace to “a new realm of experience” (4-9-10).  What this term means is this: it is a new reality of human experiences, conditions, and states of being “human”.  Jacobs also uses the term “mapping” in reference to the adaptation of data within this new realm. In other words the translation of computer coding can be increasingly modified to expand the boundaries of this new, parallel universe to accommodate man’s desires: forever redefining cyberspace.

This revelation of expansive boundaries within cyberspace gives credence to Benedikt’s second and most interesting definition: cyberspace as a limitless space that can be accessed anywhere. The fact that cyberspace is accessible anywhere at virtually any time is evidence of its existence and truth. Author, James Q. Jacobs also agrees with this analogy in his article: Cyberspace is a Parallel World, A Metaphor Analysis, in which he compares cyberspace to “a new realm of experience” (4-9-10). Experiences are only limited by man’s imagination, and experiences within the cyberspace realm of virtual reality (VR) are proof. In VR new developments in cyber-technologies are continuing to increase the variety of possible experiences that man can enjoy, such as those in gaming. Ananda Mitra and Rae Lynn Schwartz, Department of Communication Wake Forest University write: “It is no longer possible to live within the metaphors of maps, movements, and nations, but it is important to move away from these signifiers to ones that address the more authentic lived experience of web-maps, hyperlinked-spaces and cyber-communities where the hyphenation signifies the cybernetic space we occupy”. (4-9-10). In other words, the reality of new experiences and their limitless possibilities within cyberspace are enhancing the lives of human beings: making the physical cumbersome, mundane, and passé: obscured by the realities of the infinite. A perfect example is e-commerce: doing business electronically. It is far more efficient.

The limitlessness of cyberspace provides the foundation for Benedikt’s third definition, which basically describes cyberspace as being ambiguous in every way conceivable. The canons of archival information have continually shape-shifted or evolved over the centuries, changing in size, shape, dimension, location, and purpose: from clay tablets; to reeds; to books; and to cyberspace (a virtual library of all knowledge). Although cyberspace is not constructed of stone and is not visible or tangible, it is undeniable that the key to this archive exists within the columns that define one’s personal space at any given place and time. Its ambiguity is its success because it does not have to conform to the confines of the finite.  For example, the Internet was a viable form of communication during 911 when other forms of communications failed.

The ambiguous nature of cyberspace supports Benedikt’s forth definition of it as a “mental geographical space of shared knowledge”. (p. 19). This statement is true because cyberspace possesses and stores accumulated information similar to the brain that is retrievable and modified through a given code or computer language. Much like human language, digital code itself is not tangible but it can be seen, read, programmed, written, printed, typed, understood, misunderstood (in its textual form), and sometimes even heard and spoken through advanced technologies.  Computer codes can be set into action through a computer when powered by electricity: much like the existence of a physical address that can be accessed by a vehicle powered by gasoline along a given highway. The Internet highway itself may not be visible, however its existence is evidenced by the results of its ultimate destination: access to a vast databank or collection of our combined knowledge and personal thoughts. One could argue that the air we breathe is not visible either, but we know of its existence because of its proven results. The same may be said of cyberspace, which is necessary for multiple purposes in our daily lives and easily accessible. Its dimensions and location, however, are much more ambiguous. It is a place one can experience (such as virtual reality), but it has no dimensions and is as vast as the universe.

The knowledge that information can travel on an invisible highway is further explained in Benedikt’s fifth description. Here Benedykt mentions cyberspace as any place where electricity carries data, which parallels other energy sources and their subsequent cargoes. Electricity is the energy that powers a computer and propels its keyboard commands into action. Without electricity keyboard commands cannot be translated into code or set into motion. Evidence of this exists when those commands reach their destination and are intelligible. If not for electricity and computers, our abilities to send email would not exist.

Data input that is saved onto a computer hard-drive powered by electricity, amounts to a cyber recording device of all that exists. This sixth definition of cyberspace applies to all information that has ever been digitally uploaded (recorded) successfully and can be played back and or interacted with over the Internet. Interactive websites, computer gaming and virtual reality sites online are just a few examples.

Similar to a recording device, Benedikt’s seventh description defines cyberspace as an all-seeing eye that knows everything, similar to God or big brother. Everything that enters cyberspace is there, in some form, for eternity. Nothing can be permanently hidden or erased once it has been created. All information may be brought back to light, to perform its original duty and undergo scrutiny. Evidence of this fact can be seen in police work where deleted information has been retrieved to solve crimes.

An example of this all-seeing eye of cyberspace can be seen in marketing firms who make it their business to keep records of all purchases. This electronic marketplace is Benedikt’s eighth definition, where all information (as a commodity in itself) can be obtained and or repurposed, and sold to the highest bidder, such as one’s personal Internet activity. Knowledge of products purchased or researched on the Internet can be sold or stolen in the form of digital information to solicit more business. The truth within this definition can be seen in cases of unsolicited business, by unfamiliar sources familiar with one’s digital purchasing history, and in cases of stolen identity over the Internet.

Not only can information that is stored in cyberspace have a monetary value, it can also be beneficial to the environment. Benedikt’s term: “realm of pure information”, refers to his ninth definition of cyberspace in which digital information is argued to be more efficient.  The development of cyberspace is responsible for unclogging and unpolluting the environment in many ways. Clear-cutting, noise pollution, sight pollution, and air pollution can all be reduced as digital files and the Internet highway replace our reliance on paper and the interstate highway.

The most noticeable aspect of cyberspace is the fact that it is unnoticeable, which may explain Benedikt’s tenth explanation: “Cyberspace as just described does not exist”. (p. 20).  It is intangible, yet its effects are a culmination of all sensory experiences. Scientists are developing cyber-sensory technologies that will enable an individual to have a full-sensory experience in cyberspace.

Cyberspace, like God, is a phenomenon that can only be experienced. Both defy reason and logic because the infinite have no limits, including those posed by definition. Therefore, if it were possible to define cyberspace, wouldn’t it be possible to define God?

Works Cited

Benedikt, Michael. “Cyberspace: First Steps.” The Cybercultures Reader. Ed: Bell, David;              Kennedy, Barbara New York: Routledge, 2000. Second Edition. Pgs. 19,20.

Jacobs, James. ©1999. Cyberspace Is A Parallel World: A Metaphor Analysis. 4-9-10.    <http://www.jqjacobs.net/anthro/metaphor.html>.  http://www.jqjacobs.net/anthro/metaphor.html

Mitra, Ananda; Schwartz, Rae Lynn. October, 1, 2001. From Cyber Space To Cybernetic Space:  Rethinking The Relationship Between Real And Virtual Spaces.4-9-10.  <http://jcmc.indiana.edu/vol7/issue1/mitra.html>.  http://jcmc.indiana.edu/vol7/issue1/mitra.html.

Post 911 Internet Successes

Originally the Internet was created for communication purposes within the U.S. Defense Department, in the 1960’s, in case of a nuclear war, but not used by the U.S. Defense Department as intended until 911. Rumors of stenography and encrypted messages on the Internet by bin Laden operatives may have led to the widespread use of the Internet within U.S. intelligence agencies. It was determined by U.S. security specialists that Al Qaeda’s Internet messaging went unnoticed, because they were outside the realm of suspicion, and enabled them to hijack the planes. According to Hocomb, Bakelaar, and Zizzamia the Internet has changed in response to 911 that involve controversial matters between security and privacy that have yet to be resolved.

During the events of 911 the Internet was used by hijacked passengers to contact family members (via cell phones), and remained a viable communication system while others failed. Although some Internet communications were sluggish for a short period, news websites and others streamlined their homepages temporarily to accommodate the heavier traffic flow. Some companies diverted their servers to facilitate faster communications and packet switching also allowed messages to get through faster, adding to the success of the Internet during the crisis.

Microsoft developed an information site for loved ones in search of 911 victims and other corporations postponed advertising that seemed inappropriate at the time. Other constructive uses of the Internet after 911 were registry sites developed for the survivors and sites that instructed the public how to access help.  Many sites were also used to raise funds for the victims and survivors such as the Red Cross proving the positive aspects of the Internet.

Hoaxes and hate speech were among some of the less appropriate uses of the Internet during 911 crises. Worse were those sites that tried to profit off of the attacks on the World Trade Center and sites that redirected users to propaganda sites, lending credibility to the negative uses of the Internet. Some sites were removed from the Internet by the F.B.I.

After the attacks on the twin towers many other sites were removed by the federal and state governments for security reasons, such as those providing information about nuclear plants and transportation. The Department of Homeland Security grew out of this fear of cyber-terrorism. Since that time there have been ongoing debates regarding wiretapping and other privacy issues that, prior to 911, were civil rights violations leading to further government mistrust.

Other misuses of the Internet by the media and private sectors, such as photo-manipulation that are terrorist related in subject matter, have increased our overall mistrust in our own government. A Zogby poll reports that half of all New Yorkers believe that the U.S. knew of the hi-jackers’ terrorist plots against the U.S. and did nothing to prevent them. But after all is said and done the Internet has proven itself useful as a weapon for terrorism as well as a mechanism for social bonding between many cultures. Hocomb, Bakelaar, and Zizzamia have successfully made their argument that the Internet can change due to global circumstances however controversial.

The Internet has also undergone other controversial changes on the issues of pornography vs. free speech. A good example would be child protective measures implemented to empower parents’ with the ability to block certain materials and sites not suited for children, as a result of Internet pedophilia or sexual predators that target and exploit children. Internet materials and sites regarding child pornography have become illegal and are suppose to have been removed from the Internet.

However, Internet pornography remains controversial. There are those groups that espouse the social benefits of pornography and their rights to free speech vs. others that argue that child pornography laws don’t go far enough, because they aren’t fool proof, and also that pornography in general exploits women and promotes degenerate behavior. Therefore, it may be said that the Internet can be used as an effective tool for sexual pleasure as well as a tool for sexual exploitaion.

Digital Communication Thesis Proposals (4-8-10)

I enjoyed the thesis presentations that were based on Digital Communication, especially Corrinda’s topic: Education Through Gaming. The main reason that I could appreciate this subject is because my nieces and nephews are all gamers and it is nice to be reassured that they are benefitting from their virtual experiences that will help them to be well-rounded individuals. My concerns center around my chosen topic: digital communications (such as gaming) and its’ possible perpetuation of hate and violence.  How safe is gaming for all ages and what safeguards are in place?

It was comforting to hear Sheila’s proposal as she mentioned Club Penguin: a virtual site for children. Sheila said that in order for her to be a part of that community one has to go through a screening process of some sort during the login period. I hope that is sufficient to ward of child predators. I thought it was particularly interesting that Sheila talked about the genderless aspect of Club Penguin and that as human we try to make it about gender anyway through keywords used to identify ones’ gender. This brings up an obvious question for me: why are children being allowed to invited other children of the opposite sex back to their igloo (if this is the case), as was suggested in class. How then is this children’s site being monitored by parents and is it?

I also enjoyed Kathy’s topic because it also relates, somewhat, to my topic which focus’ on inter-net activism. Kathy talked about Obama’s use of the inter-net during his presidential campaign and how effective it was in reaching out to those in rural areas. In her argument she claims that politics and the inter-net have just become different types of marketing and that marketing strategies change with the inter-net? James asked: “What is special about the inter-net that makes this work?” Maybe this goes back to McLuhan’s claim that the media is the message. Is the change in marketing strategy unique to the inter-net in as much as the inter-net influences it? One unique aspect of the inter-net is that it is more accessible. Anyone with a mobile device can access the inter-net virtually anywhere.

This rural accessibility aspect of the inter-net was also touch on by Maurice as he proposed to discuss how inter-net technologies are closing the digital gap in rural areas to such an extent that it is changing how agriculture is done in the U.S. Maurice also reported that the one can obtain a weather report for any 5 km. sq. area in the U.S. through the use of a mobile cellular device. I also thought that it was particularly interesting that James mentioned how heavier crops rely on different technologies.