Blog #10 - Hermans

I think the internet has been a big contributor in getting similar minded people together and feeling a bit more of a community with whatever philosophies you may have. I also think this has been good in many ways but bad in many ways as well. Take antisemitic people for example, they may not outwardly showcase their hate in their neighborhoods or form groups in the real world, but would be much more likely to join an antisemitic group online where you can be anonymously or not, and talk to people who are like minded. This is dangerous not only for getting groups of people together whose ideals should not be strengthened or encouraged but it may also present more radical ideas and violence since it is anonymous and online. Though these groups can often be dangerous, they can also make people feel not as alone in a society that loves boxing people into specific categories. Gender was a great example that Robin brought up because it has been so strictly either man or woman 150 years ago and has been evolving quite a bit nowadays. People who feel gender fluid or queer can find other people who feel the same way online which makes them feel as if they really do fit into some sort of category. And I believe this is what leads to naming of different genders, and in this society as it stands now, I believe this is a very valuable thing. As we discussed before, naming of conditions or identities make them feel as if they are real and more valid. I think ultimately it would be better if everyone was gender fluid and didn't conform to any sort of gender or sexuality and could just be themselves but how we are living today certainly wouldn't merit that right now.