The mob is a very interesting phenomenon of the internet. Basically, I believe the anonymity really does embolden people into saying and posting things about them that they would never normally consider. Whilst I definitely do not believe it is always interconnected, I believe it allows for the behavior and has caused many of the cyber bullying cases we hear about every day. I think the anger that is unleashed is something most of the people live with everyday, and the online world allows them to vent without the threat of consequences or recourse. People will do very crazy things if they don’t believe that they will get in trouble or be judged for it and the internet it the perfect storm in it acquiesces to all 3 of these criteria. At the same time, I ultimately believe people are the ones responsible for what they post on the internet. If you can’t handle the fact that what you put out about yourself will have unexpected or intended backlash, then you need to examine why you are putting things online. While this may not be fair, it is the system that is in place and people need to be careful with what they put on their Facebook or Twitter. The internet is truly a dangerous place when not used properly and the Mob is a great example of what happens when you don’t take care of your information. If you put a video of yourself on Youtube, one can expect a fair amount of criticism. If you can’t handle the heat, get out of the fire. Be responsible and don’t post embarrassing information and one can hopefully avoid the wrath of the mob. But as long as people are looking for attention and people are allowed to say whatever they want over the internet, the mob figures to be a big part of the process and will remain so until there are actual consequences for the brutish behavior over the internet. But I don’t see this coming anytime soon.
This post rings incredibly true, as people should never post anything they don't want the world to see. Responsibility is lost online and why that happens is people just don't understand what they're doing. The Internet is full of people who come and and say what they can't say in person; they're reality is just too tough for them. Consequences don't affect people because rarely are there any, it's a free for all.
ReplyDeleteWe both took the same topic and much of the information is the same: people aren't responsible with what they do, thought is not put into words and people go crazy doing what they want and can't do in real life. And the fact that anyone can connect and join means a huge online population.
One quote really stuck with me, and that was "If you can’t handle the fact that what you put out about yourself will have unexpected or intended backlash, then you need to examine why you are putting things online." This should be posted in rooms all across the world. The Internet is available to anyone with a connection and it can't be kept a secret. If we just stopped to think about what we are putting online, it might actually make us feel better because it will be things we actually want to share, and something that will field criticism that is expected. Think people, just think.
Jacob,
ReplyDeleteI don't think your Mob commentary is bad, but you really didn't write enough to make any strong points or show any even minimal research..
Your comments in class are excellent..
but this blog is really C work..