In Matt’s blog, he shared this quote. “The absence of any correlation between internet usage and civic engagement could mean that the internet attracts reclusive nerds and energizes them, but it could also mean that the Net disproportionately attracts civil dynamos and sedates them.” Then he proposed these questions…Do activists write their hearts out on the internet, and then fail to take action in real life because they feel like they have already done their part? Is the act of discussing your beliefs online the same as doing so offline?
I think that these are two great and thought provoking questions!
This situation reminded me of the quote that Divya found and shared on the discussion board. “The Internet is like alcohol in some sense. It accentuates what you would do anyway. If you want to be a loner, you can be more alone. If you want to connect, it makes it easier to connect.” Therefore, following the same thought process, it may be the case that the internet encourages more active participation in “civic engagement”. For those people who would act in real life, the internet helps make this possible. However, Samantha pointed out in reply to that post that alcohol is sometimes referred to as “liquid courage” because people who are under the influence do things that they might not do when sober. The internet acts in a similar manner. The anonymity possible in cyberspace gives people the courage to speak their opinions and express their thoughts, when they may not feel comfortable doing so in a face to face situation.
This was extremely beneficial to the Obama campaign, because as Matt phrased it, “people actively discussing it on the internet” absolutely helped spread awareness. In this case simply spreading the word and discussing the issue was enough. I do think that in certain situations, such as the protests described in the article “The Radicalization of Zeke Spier” real life action is going to make more of an impact. When you want to expose the issues to a large amount of people the internet can be a great tool to do so, but if you need to make an impression on people of power talking on the internet just does not cause enough of a stir.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Obama and the Internet
Obama's use of the internet as a major component of his campaign was extremely effective. As many other people have mentioned in their posts, he has gained a huge following, evident by the Obama merchandise that is seen everywhere.
I think that people responded so well to Obama's website because it made them feel like they could do things to really make a difference in the election. I understand the importance of exercising your right to vote, but sometimes it is hard to feel like your one tiny vote is really going to matter in the whole scheme of things. However, when a presidential candidate provides information on his website explaining the many ways that the average person can get involved, stay informed and make a difference, it makes everyone feel important.
I think that people responded so well to Obama's website because it made them feel like they could do things to really make a difference in the election. I understand the importance of exercising your right to vote, but sometimes it is hard to feel like your one tiny vote is really going to matter in the whole scheme of things. However, when a presidential candidate provides information on his website explaining the many ways that the average person can get involved, stay informed and make a difference, it makes everyone feel important.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
The Internet as a Metaphor
For some reason, when I was reading this article, I began to think about our very first discussion on blackboard regarding "The Internet as a Metaphor". I noticed distinct parts in this article that validated the arguments for the internet as a tool, as a space, and as a way of life. I realized that each new discussion topic can relate back to that particular debate. I think that my way of understanding the original article that we discussed has grown and evolved as we have discovered the many different ways that people use the internet, whether it be for acceptance, to find love, or express one's feelings on political issues.
In one of the posts that I wrote on the discussion board, "The internet is definitely a tool that I use every day to connect with my friends, to communicate via email, and to store important documents." I think that Zeke absolutely used the internet for all of these purposes, and this "tool" was very important in allowing him to accomplish all the things that he was able to accomplish. The internet is much more than a simple tool, but it is the basic functions that the technology allows us to do that aid in everyday life. Zeke was able to complete "95% of his research online". He explained that he used the internet to find the facts and become an informed citizen.
The quote within this article that actually sparked this connection between The Radicalization of Zeke and The Internet as a Metaphor was "Even though the internet was developed by an agency of the Department of Defense, it was adopted early on by members of the counterculture who saw it as an excellent way to connect people with similar beliefs who were separated by time and space". This quote describes how a group of people took a simple tool and used it to establish an easily accessible space. The debate seems to be about whether or not the internet, takes away from face to face experiences. I think that rather than taking away from this interaction, instead it offers the ability to interact where it wouldn't otherwise be possible. It is important to note that Zeke used the internet to organize face to face meetings as well.
It is obvious from the article that the more Zeke learned, the more passionate he became about this issues within this country. This passion turned into a way of life for him. I think that a large part of this passion was made possible by the internet, in a way bringing together each metaphor and making them work as one collective unit.
In one of the posts that I wrote on the discussion board, "The internet is definitely a tool that I use every day to connect with my friends, to communicate via email, and to store important documents." I think that Zeke absolutely used the internet for all of these purposes, and this "tool" was very important in allowing him to accomplish all the things that he was able to accomplish. The internet is much more than a simple tool, but it is the basic functions that the technology allows us to do that aid in everyday life. Zeke was able to complete "95% of his research online". He explained that he used the internet to find the facts and become an informed citizen.
The quote within this article that actually sparked this connection between The Radicalization of Zeke and The Internet as a Metaphor was "Even though the internet was developed by an agency of the Department of Defense, it was adopted early on by members of the counterculture who saw it as an excellent way to connect people with similar beliefs who were separated by time and space". This quote describes how a group of people took a simple tool and used it to establish an easily accessible space. The debate seems to be about whether or not the internet, takes away from face to face experiences. I think that rather than taking away from this interaction, instead it offers the ability to interact where it wouldn't otherwise be possible. It is important to note that Zeke used the internet to organize face to face meetings as well.
It is obvious from the article that the more Zeke learned, the more passionate he became about this issues within this country. This passion turned into a way of life for him. I think that a large part of this passion was made possible by the internet, in a way bringing together each metaphor and making them work as one collective unit.
Monday, June 15, 2009
The Radicalization of Zeke Spier
Talking about politics makes me very uncomfortable. I'm guilty, as I imagine too many people are, of not staying informed of current events and political issues.
This is just a little side story, that illustrates how most of my friends do not watch the news regularly. As you know by now I studied abroad in Rome. While I was there, there was an incredibly violent earthquake about 60 miles from the capital. It happened at around 3:30 in the morning and it was not strong in Rome, although you could feel a slight shaking of the ground. I woke up the next morning to frantic messages from my mom, and various other people who just wanted to make sure that I was alright. A few of my friends wrote on my facebook page, however, my best friends didn't seem to show any concern. I was just joking with them and I asked why they didn't care whether or not I died in the earthquake. But the reason was that they don't watch the news. It was very obvious to me after that situation who watches the news and who doesn't.
Another thing that I noticed was that those people who had watched the news that day were also the people that I remember being very passionate about the presidential debates and the politics that surrounded them. But in my opinion that is how it should be. It should be those people, that make an effort to stay informed, that argue about their beliefs. Obviously I understand the importance of freedom of speech, and we can't stop people from expressing themselves. But I think that many people formulate their opinions without making a conscious effort to hear both sides of the story.
Within the article, I respected Zeke because before he blindly joined a protest, and despite the "Adrenaline flowing," it seemed like he made a consistent effort to stay informed on the issues. In the counterargument within the article Elin points out that the internet "is replacing the physical public space where citizens are exposed to different points of view with a private place where individuals withdraw into themselves and reinforce deeply held prejudices." This is a very valid point. How many of you have had a discussion on politics and realized that the person that you were talking to could hear the exact same piece of information as you, but somehow in their mind manipulate it to fit their argument? I have had those conversations. People make opinions and then manipulate the information to support it rather than using all types of information to formulate their opinion. They hear what they want to hear.
In the article however, Zeke tried to avoid this exact situation. He claimed that he used the internet to "get smart." Zeke also said, "About 95% of the research I did was on the internet. I visited the IMF official website, then I would go and do a search to find all the protest groups - 20 or 30 groups. I wanted to make sure I was informed enough, so I went after the facts, myself." I think that although the author pointed out one of the risks of using the internet to research political issues, Zeke's use of the internet for his research demonstrates just how valuable a tool the internet can be when used in an objective manner to hear all sides. I think more people (myself included) should make an effort to become more informed and to get involved.
This is just a little side story, that illustrates how most of my friends do not watch the news regularly. As you know by now I studied abroad in Rome. While I was there, there was an incredibly violent earthquake about 60 miles from the capital. It happened at around 3:30 in the morning and it was not strong in Rome, although you could feel a slight shaking of the ground. I woke up the next morning to frantic messages from my mom, and various other people who just wanted to make sure that I was alright. A few of my friends wrote on my facebook page, however, my best friends didn't seem to show any concern. I was just joking with them and I asked why they didn't care whether or not I died in the earthquake. But the reason was that they don't watch the news. It was very obvious to me after that situation who watches the news and who doesn't.
Another thing that I noticed was that those people who had watched the news that day were also the people that I remember being very passionate about the presidential debates and the politics that surrounded them. But in my opinion that is how it should be. It should be those people, that make an effort to stay informed, that argue about their beliefs. Obviously I understand the importance of freedom of speech, and we can't stop people from expressing themselves. But I think that many people formulate their opinions without making a conscious effort to hear both sides of the story.
Within the article, I respected Zeke because before he blindly joined a protest, and despite the "Adrenaline flowing," it seemed like he made a consistent effort to stay informed on the issues. In the counterargument within the article Elin points out that the internet "is replacing the physical public space where citizens are exposed to different points of view with a private place where individuals withdraw into themselves and reinforce deeply held prejudices." This is a very valid point. How many of you have had a discussion on politics and realized that the person that you were talking to could hear the exact same piece of information as you, but somehow in their mind manipulate it to fit their argument? I have had those conversations. People make opinions and then manipulate the information to support it rather than using all types of information to formulate their opinion. They hear what they want to hear.
In the article however, Zeke tried to avoid this exact situation. He claimed that he used the internet to "get smart." Zeke also said, "About 95% of the research I did was on the internet. I visited the IMF official website, then I would go and do a search to find all the protest groups - 20 or 30 groups. I wanted to make sure I was informed enough, so I went after the facts, myself." I think that although the author pointed out one of the risks of using the internet to research political issues, Zeke's use of the internet for his research demonstrates just how valuable a tool the internet can be when used in an objective manner to hear all sides. I think more people (myself included) should make an effort to become more informed and to get involved.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
The Development of Romantic Relationships Online
What type of person do you think that Alexis is and how did these influence their online relationship her ability to fall in love.
I think that Alexis came across in the article as a very endearing and normal person. I think that there are often stereotpyes associated with people who find love online, but Alexis was very easy to relate to. I think that this is soooo important to not only why she fell in love and made a deep connection with Craig, but also with how I viewed their story. I was rooting for things to work out for her. Even though I can never imagine doing the things that she did, such as just entering a random chat room, or meeting someone in NYC, she made those things seem perfectly normal and acceptable because they were all done in the name of love.
I think that Alexis came across as a very caring person, who was just looking for her equal. She didn't seem as concerned with appearance and the most important thing for her was the ability to carry an inteligent conversation with someone. For this type of person, an online meeting is perfect, because there is less of a tendency to become distracted by other factors. She was able to get to know Craig and his views on life in a none threatening and non judgemental way. I was happy that she found love and I hope that they are still together. I feel this way, because of how she told her story and because she came across as a genuinely nice person in the interview.
I think that Alexis came across in the article as a very endearing and normal person. I think that there are often stereotpyes associated with people who find love online, but Alexis was very easy to relate to. I think that this is soooo important to not only why she fell in love and made a deep connection with Craig, but also with how I viewed their story. I was rooting for things to work out for her. Even though I can never imagine doing the things that she did, such as just entering a random chat room, or meeting someone in NYC, she made those things seem perfectly normal and acceptable because they were all done in the name of love.
I think that Alexis came across as a very caring person, who was just looking for her equal. She didn't seem as concerned with appearance and the most important thing for her was the ability to carry an inteligent conversation with someone. For this type of person, an online meeting is perfect, because there is less of a tendency to become distracted by other factors. She was able to get to know Craig and his views on life in a none threatening and non judgemental way. I was happy that she found love and I hope that they are still together. I feel this way, because of how she told her story and because she came across as a genuinely nice person in the interview.
Relationships and Text Messaging
In Kristin’s post she brought up the subject of text messaging. I am really happy that she brought up the subject of text messaging, because as she points out it isn't online communication, still it is a written form of communication. I do not chat online as often as I used to in high school, and therefore when reading all of these articles texting is what I refer to in my mind.
This is a personal account of relationships/texting or talking on the phone, but it seems relevant and reading about Alexis and Craig’s relationships started me thinking about the relationships that I have had and how technology has played a role in them.
I was dating a guy that I met in high school for the first year that I was away at college. We talked on the phone for hours each night. I really enjoyed our conversations and it felt like he was close to me even though we obviously couldn't see each other.
Now I am dating someone from college and during the summer it has become somewhat of a long distance relationship. The catch is…he hates talking on the phone. We have never had one phone conversation ever. This was really difficult for me at first (just as writing this blog is). I feel like Alexis when I try and get my points across in written form. “I don’t think I’m anywhere near articulate or poetic enough to put what “I” feel in words” I am very expressive when I speak and I make a lot of facial expressions and I really have a hard time getting my thoughts and more importantly the emotion to come across via text messaging. However the more we talk through text the more I am starting to see the art behind having conversations this way. It is a challenge to keep the conversation meaningful and witty at the same time. It’s also a great way to say “Hi, just wanted to say I’m thinking about you.”
Basically, I’m really torn about whether or not I like talking through text messaging as opposed to over the phone, because as Kristin points out in her post, text messaging is an “impersonal medium.” I am curious about how other people communicate with their significant others, if anyone is comfortable sharing. Does anyone talk on the phone more often than through text messages or is that now what people prefer? Is it hard for other people to communicate in that way, or is that just me?
This is a personal account of relationships/texting or talking on the phone, but it seems relevant and reading about Alexis and Craig’s relationships started me thinking about the relationships that I have had and how technology has played a role in them.
I was dating a guy that I met in high school for the first year that I was away at college. We talked on the phone for hours each night. I really enjoyed our conversations and it felt like he was close to me even though we obviously couldn't see each other.
Now I am dating someone from college and during the summer it has become somewhat of a long distance relationship. The catch is…he hates talking on the phone. We have never had one phone conversation ever. This was really difficult for me at first (just as writing this blog is). I feel like Alexis when I try and get my points across in written form. “I don’t think I’m anywhere near articulate or poetic enough to put what “I” feel in words” I am very expressive when I speak and I make a lot of facial expressions and I really have a hard time getting my thoughts and more importantly the emotion to come across via text messaging. However the more we talk through text the more I am starting to see the art behind having conversations this way. It is a challenge to keep the conversation meaningful and witty at the same time. It’s also a great way to say “Hi, just wanted to say I’m thinking about you.”
Basically, I’m really torn about whether or not I like talking through text messaging as opposed to over the phone, because as Kristin points out in her post, text messaging is an “impersonal medium.” I am curious about how other people communicate with their significant others, if anyone is comfortable sharing. Does anyone talk on the phone more often than through text messages or is that now what people prefer? Is it hard for other people to communicate in that way, or is that just me?
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
The Development of Romantic Relationships Online
Alexis and Craig's relationship began online, but progressed until they finally met in person. How is this different from relationships that remain entirely online?
I could not even imagine maintaining a long term relationship entirely online. I think that even people who actively try and find love on the Internet do so with the intention of eventually meeting the person and continuing in a face to face relationship. Jerry Suler wrote "Humans need physical contact with each other. Infants sink into depression and die without it." I never knew that people actually chose to continue their online relationship indefinitely. I always thought that the Internet was used merely as a tool to initiate face to face relationships and perhaps to continue communicate in a long distance relationship.
Does anyone know of a relationship where the individuals choose to only interact online?
I could not even imagine maintaining a long term relationship entirely online. I think that even people who actively try and find love on the Internet do so with the intention of eventually meeting the person and continuing in a face to face relationship. Jerry Suler wrote "Humans need physical contact with each other. Infants sink into depression and die without it." I never knew that people actually chose to continue their online relationship indefinitely. I always thought that the Internet was used merely as a tool to initiate face to face relationships and perhaps to continue communicate in a long distance relationship.
Does anyone know of a relationship where the individuals choose to only interact online?
I am new to blogging and I'm not really sure how to comment or respond to someone else's blog, or if that is even possible, but I had some thoughts about Alex's post. So this is what I would have commented if I could have figured out how to do so...
Alex, I too found myself expecting Craig to be a disapointment for Alexis. One thing that I also found interesting was that she was skeptical during their entire interaction, and even more interesting was the fact that she wanted that to come across in her interview. She didn't even tell her parents, even after her and Craig had been dating how they had originally met. "Would any parent let their kid meet someone they met over the internet?"
Did you notice this at all when reading the article? Do you think that this made her more realistic and relatable? I think what I am trying to say is that in general most people are skeptical of online relationships because of all the unsucessful ones that we hear of. However, I was completely intrigued by the account that Alexis told, mostly because she seemed to share these apprehensions, and she proceeded in a responsible manner. I think that our perspective of the situation may have been completely different if she had simply ran off to meet with him after talking to him once, or if she had done something equally as reckless.
Alex, I too found myself expecting Craig to be a disapointment for Alexis. One thing that I also found interesting was that she was skeptical during their entire interaction, and even more interesting was the fact that she wanted that to come across in her interview. She didn't even tell her parents, even after her and Craig had been dating how they had originally met. "Would any parent let their kid meet someone they met over the internet?"
Did you notice this at all when reading the article? Do you think that this made her more realistic and relatable? I think what I am trying to say is that in general most people are skeptical of online relationships because of all the unsucessful ones that we hear of. However, I was completely intrigued by the account that Alexis told, mostly because she seemed to share these apprehensions, and she proceeded in a responsible manner. I think that our perspective of the situation may have been completely different if she had simply ran off to meet with him after talking to him once, or if she had done something equally as reckless.
The Development of Romantic Relationships Online
What does love mean for Alexis and what about the online environment helped facilitate this relationship?
The impression that I got from the article was that the quality that attracted Alexis to Craig was his ability to communicate with her in a meaningful and supportive way. She emphasised the fact that they "totally clicked...almost immediately." The fact that Alexis felt completely comfortable being herself and being honest started their relationship on a solid foundation. Initally she seemed to be a little concerned that there was always the possibility that Craig was acting like someone he was not. However as there conversations continued and Alexis realized how much they had in common, she began to trust Craig. This trust allowed her to establish an open and honest connection with him. In her account, Alexis said "we have the exact same views on what we want in a relationship and what a relationship should be like." She seemed to have found this out relatively soon after they had begun talking. I think that the ability to talk to openly about one's personal views regarding relationships so early on is less common in person, but is definitely important to know when you are considering entering into a relationship with someone.
I think that the reason that the online environment was able to facilitate such a strong relationship was due to the lack of face to face distractions such as appearance. Alexis even admitted that in the past she had dated hot guys who always ended up being jerks. Basing her opinion of Craig soley on his opinions and personality, in my opinion, allowed them to form a connection based on respect and trust rather than physical attraction.
The impression that I got from the article was that the quality that attracted Alexis to Craig was his ability to communicate with her in a meaningful and supportive way. She emphasised the fact that they "totally clicked...almost immediately." The fact that Alexis felt completely comfortable being herself and being honest started their relationship on a solid foundation. Initally she seemed to be a little concerned that there was always the possibility that Craig was acting like someone he was not. However as there conversations continued and Alexis realized how much they had in common, she began to trust Craig. This trust allowed her to establish an open and honest connection with him. In her account, Alexis said "we have the exact same views on what we want in a relationship and what a relationship should be like." She seemed to have found this out relatively soon after they had begun talking. I think that the ability to talk to openly about one's personal views regarding relationships so early on is less common in person, but is definitely important to know when you are considering entering into a relationship with someone.
I think that the reason that the online environment was able to facilitate such a strong relationship was due to the lack of face to face distractions such as appearance. Alexis even admitted that in the past she had dated hot guys who always ended up being jerks. Basing her opinion of Craig soley on his opinions and personality, in my opinion, allowed them to form a connection based on respect and trust rather than physical attraction.
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