I really thought this summed up this article quite well: "The Internet did not create grifters...if anything, the Net has simply changed the dynamics of the game."
Yup, my thoughts exactly : ) It also said because of the mediums vulnerability to deception that Internet users should "adopt a healthy scepticism when online." I'm a mostly trusting person, but I keep a safe distance, especially emotionally, from strangers and strange things online as well as in real life. Keeping my guard up online comes natural to me since its always served me well IRL.
I do feel bad for the people who ended up feeling betrayed by the story. The sense of belonging to something, even simply praying for a cause, is very powerful and when those trusts are damaged...well this article points out exactly what can happen. I think Debbie knew what she was doing. I totally don't buy her "Oops, I didn't mean any harm" bit at all. She wanted what every 'cool blogger' wants...readers! It was wrong letting people comment and support and gather around this 'story' knowing that everyone else thought it was real. She should have let them in on her little secret earlier, like right away. Too bad they couldn't revoke her blogging license or something : )
So that brings me back to the beginning...people like this exist, with or without the Internet. Be careful who you choose to trust, period.
sharxjay!
ReplyDeleteAwesome quote man! That really did sum everything up really well. Lies have always been told no matter what the medium. Its just even more easier to fool more people know with the technology of the internet. People are able to hide their identities and attract many more people much more easier than before.
Also I completely agree with your statement be careful who you trust. I think I have trust issues because I can't really trust anyone. Also once someone does loose my trust, they loose it forever. Oh well!
Great post! Have a great weekend!
-Jossshhuaa
HEY SHARXJAY,
ReplyDeleteI really liked your discussion post for the Jordan article about virtual death. I agree with much of what you said and like how you stated, “The net has simply changed the dynamics of the game.” I totally agree because I see how people try to apply their personal settings in life to their behavior on the Internet. One must simply understand that the web plays as a community and not everything is as it seems online. I also keep my guard up while on the Internet because you never know who exactly will be reading what you write. Overall, great post, Peace out!
-Ozzwaldo