How Visible Are You?

After reading the articles, it had me thinking the importance of privacy, surveillance and identity over the World Wide Web or as simple as a cellphone. Many of us do not realize how much of an impact this could make on our lives. Even if you think that something you posted is funny at the time, it may not in the future. As stated in my minor blog, there are considerations that need to be evaluated before typing and entering something electronically.

Identity wise, the use of social networking such as Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, texting and so much more have changed who we are as a person subconsciously. We focus so much of our time communicating with each other electronically we sometimes forget that spending time with someone in person is a lot more important than with your computer or cellphone. Even in Turkle’s article, she states: “the little devices most of us carry around are so powerful that they change not only what we do, but also who we are” (Turkle, 2012). On another note on identity, it is easy to pretend to be something you’re not behind a screen. Not saying me specifically, but as we all know there is a potential number of imposters, imitators, creepers and pedophiles out there and you would have no idea. Think of how many times someone random has added you on Facebook from Turkey… you have no clue who they are and they could be anyone. Turkle also mentions, “Texting and e-mail and posting let us present the self we want to be. This means we can edit. And if we wish to, we can delete. Or retouch: the voice, the flesh, the face, the body. Not too much, not too little — just right” (Turkle, 2012). With all this technology of photoshopping and editing, how do we know who we are talking to is REALLY who we are talking to?

Surveillance and privacy are similar in a way where you are constantly being watched. They also work hand in hand as business partners. For example, all the friends you have on Facebook could be ‘stalking’ you anytime by being able to see your status updates, photos tagged in and what people are writing on your wall. There isn’t much privacy about who you are as a person. Like they say, a picture is worth a thousand words. In reference to Bennet’s Blog, http://bennetsblog.wordpress.com/2012/10/18/creepers/#comments, he talks about how Google and Facebook can use the information about you and sell it to difference companies. In a way, your personal information is invaded and businesses will use this to their advantage. Just as simple as what you search on Google every time you log on can give them information who you are as a person. On the right panel of my Facebook, there are a bunch of female related advertisements constantly popping up. Facebook detects that I am a girl and gathers information about my location, my likes and is able to sell that information to shoe companies, hair dressers companies, nail salon businesses and so forth. As much as I appreciate this, I would rather have them stay away from me!

What To Post And When To Post!

Sharing who you are online could break you or help you. It is crucial to determine how you want to be perceived by others. Just a simple word or the language you choose could be the definition of you. One criterion to watch out for when posting about yourself is determining your audience. For example, it might not be the most appropriate spot to place naked drunk pictures of yourself when you have your work and family on Facebook. Another criterion is the way you pronounce and speak of yourself. It is important to value each word you type and post for the world to see. For example, cursing every other word may not be the best bet in representing yourself as a well-educated student.

Empowerment of Technology

The extent of the word technology could be endless. Technology is a prime example of the world evolving and innovation itself. It plays a huge role in economic, cultural, and social development. I mean yes there has been some dislikes with the fact that technology has replaced many workers in factories and such but have you not noticed many other jobs it has created? Mico chip makers, video game makers, online jobs… and so much more. For example, Apple is a billion dollar revenue making business with over 500,000 employee opportunities created. http://www.apple.com/about/job-creation/. I’m sure just the main page speaks for itself!

Socially and culturally, technology has created a positive impact for people emotionally and spiritually despite its downfalls if you would like to argue as the devil’s advocate. There are many social groups and blogs online for people to express their feelings and share experiences while being anonymous. Here is an example: http://teendiaries.net/?tag=teen-pregnancy. Culturally, it is expected in this day and time, for us all the own a cellphone, computer or a television. It has played such an important role in communication and making our lives so much easier… just imagine if you could never have a cellphone again! (And I’m talking about our generation, students 😉 )