Blog 2- "Be careful what you post"

By Nykita Paroz 

Social media has given us the power to announce our presence in a spectacular form or to follow the identity of the cyber flaneur; a figure that lingers betwixt the crowd to observe and at times leave a lasting imprint. Yet where it is that we draw the line between freedom of expression and pernicious power? 

http://teenspeak.org/2012/04/20/pause-before-you-post-think-before-you-tweet/

Social media provides user the freedom to post whatever we want, within any context. Even if what we post is used to project negative reflections towards other people or places. When these situations arise, people are often inclined to react by posting comments that either agree or disagree; which often lead to irrational discussions. Though my experience with social media (Facebook) has been a positive one, I have begun to notice this behaviour that does impose a sense of intimidation. Much like the intimidation felt by the 1798 Parisian Police when face with urbanisation; where sinful acts became a "mass and anonymous form" (Prouty, 2009). It is the anonymity of the virtual network that has made posting these status and comments that more appealing. It emits a sense of boldness, with little to no consequences. 

The role of the "cyber flaneur" as described by Dr. Kuttainen (2015)   is a figure who simply observes with the intent to be noticed. Moreover, cyber falneurs involved with  subcultures like trolling or catfishing may have a more malevolent agenda; to impose menace and harmful doings. Digital Media & Cyberculture. 

Like Benjamin Walter's "Arcade Project" (Prouty, 2009)there are schemes in place to control such events. However as the initiators, we need to be cautious about, what is been said and who we are saying it to. Everyone has the right to express their opinions, but it is in our power to say it with reason. 

References: 

Kuttainen, V. (2015) BA1002: Our Space: Networks, narratives and the making of place, Lecture 4, maps [Power Point slides] Retrieved from http://learnjcu.edu.au 

Prouty. R. (2009). A Turtle on a leash [class readings] Retrieved 17 August 2015 from  http://learnjcu.edu.au 

Image: 

http://teenspeak.org/2012/04/20/pause-before-you-post-think-before-you-tweet/