Cyberspace

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=Introduction=

The word "cyberspace" was coined by the science fiction author William Gibson, when he sought a name to describe his vision of a global computer network, linking all people, machines and sources of information in the world, and through which one could move or "navigate" as through a virtual space.

The word "//cyber//", apparently referring to the science of [|cybernetics], was well-chosen for this purpose, as it derives from the Greek verb "Kubernao", which means "to steer" and which is the root of our present word "to govern". It connotes both the idea of //navigation// through a space of electronic data, and of //control// which is achieved by manipulating those data.

The word "space", on the other hand, connotes several aspects. First, a space has a virtually infinite //extension//, including so many things that they can never be grasped all at once. This is a good description of the already existing collections of electronic data, on e.g. the Internet. Second, space connotes the idea of //free movement//, of being able to visit a variety of states or places. Third, a space has some kind of a //geometry//, implying concepts such as distance, direction and dimension.

The word "cyberspace" is used in a variety of significations. Some use it as a synonym for virtual reality, others as a synonym for the World-Wide Web.

Cyberspace is formerly described as the range of information resources that are available through the network of computers. It is a certain kind of "space" in the virutal world where humans interact and engage in human communication. It is important to remember, it is an artificially constructed environment that is developed through the use of computers. Cyberspace consists of several places where it enables users to share the virtual experience with millions of other users connected to the internet. It allows users to do everything from chatting in chatrooms, to participating in blogs, to obtaining useful information, to performing business transactions. It is a place that presents endless oppurtunities for all the users.

=Cyberspace in Relations to Identities and Subcultures=

This so called “virtual space” is unconfined by the physical constriants of reality. The relationships created in these cyberspaces have pushed the boundaries of traditional human interactive behavior. It allows individuals and cultures to express and present theselves to the world free from of the limitations of physical borders. The boundless virtual world brings forth a vast range of subcultures and reveals many hidden identities. This virtual system also permits us to explore identities that we could not do so as freely in the real world. Cyberspace offers a 'space' for individuals and cultures to find individualism, design identities and ascend subcultures.



__Some of the unique features of such cyberspace behavior include__//: //

Identity flexibility

 * Since communication takes place only through mediums such as computers, humans have the flexibility of revealing and expressing as much as they please about their true identity.
 * Being able to express our real selves, we can also have the choice of remaining anonymous and still interact with other users.
 * No need to reveal personal information about you.
 * Individuality can still be retained under a persona or user name that represent the virtual you.

Individualism/ Stronger forms of self expressions

 * Humans have the ability of expressing them selves through writing which is low in production cost as well as encourages cognitive skills in expressing their thoughts.
 * Instead of being in a mass of faceless communicator or audiences, we now have oppourtunities to go out of our own way in expressing our views.
 * In reality, we often have to conceal our 'true' self under certain circumstances, whether it is for protection or inapproriate setting. We do not always get a chance to speak out mind in the real world, under possible reasons such as peer pressure and social norm.
 * Personal homepages dictated by individuals
 * With the support of hyper-designed template and polished graphical use interface, homepages can bring out the uniqueness of each individual to the maximun level
 * People can easily become active cultural producers through conveying their views throught these mediums, while it might take much mroe efforts involved in the real world.
 * Suppressed identities can find individuality in Cyberspace

Global audinences

 * With the creation of web blog, one can express their 'true' voice in their digital jornal or diary.
 * At the same time, one can benifits from the feature of global audiences and form virtual communities with people that has similar mind-set.

Form virtual communities

 * Build from people with common interests, similar background or same goals.

Equalized status

 * Through the internet everyone is given an equal opportunity to voice their thoughts and opinions without the fear of being judged by their race, caste and or creed.

Identity construction

 * There are infinite possibilities for one to explore and play with identities.
 * We can adapt multiple identities, because our physical flesh does not restrict us.
 * Allow people to explore themselves through experimenting with identity and gender switching. Which are difficult or sometimes not possible in 'real' life.
 * //'Strategic self presentation'// (Gaunlett & Horsley) - let us 'plan' and 'design' how to present ourselves.
 * //The Queer Theory// - proposed the idea that "people don't have a fixed 'essence', and that identity is a performance" (Gaunlett & Horsley)
 * Can keep switching personality continuously without the pressure of thinking about what would be the consequences if it were the real world.
 * Manipulate impression virtually easily with the aid of electronic communication tools - to help us create an 'image' (Avatar, chat rooms, personal homepage)
 * Anywhere in the Cyberspace, all virtual identity can be designed and tailored to the individual's purpose

A tool for the subcultures

 * Subcultures - groups of people who opposes to mainstream culture
 * Cyberspace is a valuable tool for individuals and subcultures
 * Frees the subculture from suppressing their lifestyles
 * Contribute to the media culture through the net
 * Construct websites that introduce their lifestyles and cultural believes
 * Provide positive impression fo their identity to the others, without having be rejected face-to-face.
 * Through the web, can reach wider audiences
 * Gives oppourtunity for subcultures to raise notice-ability among other cultures.

Clearly, the virtual world made possible for even a single person out of the mass to be known. It also made possible for an individual to adapt numerous identities, to experience what is not possible in reality. Whether it's one person or a group of people, we can all benefits from the freedom that the Cyberspace can offer like no others. Ultimately, the Cyberspace is where individualism, identities and subcultures emerge endlessly.

=External Links=

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyberspace

=Works Cited=

John Suler's //The Psychology of Cyberspace// [|http://www.rider.edu/%7Esuler/psycyber/basicfeat.html]

David Gauntlett & Ross Horsley's //Web Studies 2nd Edition.//

=Image Sources=

//Screenshots// 

//RealityCarnival.Com// 