Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Fragmentersity.
Our discussion of Andersons "niche culture" brought up some interesting points. Are we really becoming a fragmented country of sub cultures? I think we have been a multi-tribe culture for quite a long time, but not until the proof was at our fingertips on the internet did it become so evident. I think all these different groups are connected by the simple fact that, in this country, we still have the right to have different groups. If we ever become too fragmented however, it would only work for so long. Because of this fragmentation, we are as individuals becoming more and more isolated. It's almost unnerving to feel that your thoughts might not have anything in common with others your own age, much less others who are older or younger than you.
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I agree, Jesse, we need to stay unified and appreciate each others' subcultures. I like the word "sharing" ; if we share our niche interests with others we can keep our individuality and still stay in touch with others. Isolation carries a heavy burden for everyone. Getting involved in activities within your tribes and outside the internet realm is a good practice. Rural areas may have the biggest challenge with this. It seems there are always more ways to reach out to each other in urban areas.
ReplyDeleteI think the fragmentation, specialization, division of culture has increased with the advent of the internet. Because people can find more interests and others like them to feel a sense of belonging. Sure, there has always been a mainstream, a status quo, and distinct traditional ideas of culture. But, the fear of isolation and disconnect is a very interesting paradox.
ReplyDelete"We've been a multi-tribe culture for a long time"
Yup, in so many ways. The construct of race and nationality, socioeconomic background, down to classification by interests, or character traits. We like to categorize, including individuals. Now it is easier more than ever to create your own brand. And we identify with these, with the thousands of sub-genres for the eclectic mix and mash of everything.