Importance of Oct 20, 2009 Lecture

This lecture was important because it emphasized society's need for networks. We learned that networks matter because they are the underlining structure of our lives. Throughout the lecture, we analysed the readings and found supporting points for networks structuring our lives. The question of networks being a positive or negative aspect arose, which I found to be very interesting. We discussed how networks have no borders or boundaries since it is expanded on a global scale. This becomes an important thing to look at when analyzing the power associated with networks. As the networks switch, the power shifts as well. Another important question that was raised in the lecture was "does technology determine society?" This was an important question that was addressed and looked at from the different points of view. The author of an article we read wished to reject technological determinism, which was a major point both in the reading and in the lecture. Overall, the lecture was an important one because it went through the readings, analyzing them and making them a lot clearer while emphasizing the major points about networks.

Rape in Cyberspace

Julian Dibbell’s A Rape in Cyberspace demonstrates a sense of community in a virtual space. It brings the meaning of “community” to a whole new level; bringing it from our everyday physical lives to virtual reality. I believe that a community was created in LambdaMOO as it progressed on and became a cyber-like city. The citizens of the community were all of the users that took part in this online society. These citizens developed rules and a way of life in their virtual home. A “rape” took place in this society, stirring up a big controversy. Many members felt emotionally abused and sickened at the thought of this happening in their little society that they built and invested themselves in. This issue was not taken lightly, and many leaders sprung from their computers and started taking charge. Just like in a real community, someone had to take charge, and others cooperated by following their lead. Many petitions were signed, and as a result, new rules and regulations were in effect in LambdaMOO. This signifies the real progress that this cyber city had made. The feeling of a community was really expressed when members were sticking up for each other; just like they would do in everyday life with their friends and neighbours. It took an emotional/controversial issue to happen in order for the real feelings of a community to be brought out. The responsible way that most of these users handled the rape issue brought them all closer together, thus enhancing the feeling of community and togetherness that they built up in their virtual lives in LambdaMOO.