Chapter 4: Communications and Networks

In this chapter Baym talks about how online communities and networks are becoming social norms and a common way people connect online. I agree with a majority of what is stated in the chapter, and also can see how as discussed in class she writes in a un-bias style on the topic. She provides more facts rather than her own opinion, which allows you to form your own from the information she gives you. During the chapter she defines norms as "a framework through which people determine what behaviors are acceptable and unacceptable," (pg. 87) while also touching on the fact that there is no updated definition of "community". Community can mean a variety of things, but in this instance it is the interaction of people or a group in the digital realm.

Reading through the chapter it is interesting how many different communities actually exist online. Exploring the idea, you immediately think of online support groups, chat rooms and online subcultures. Other examples from the chapter include second life cultures on line such as Sims and World of Warcraft where people through coding are entered into another world, able to communicate with others. It is a interesting concept how you can escape reality and enter into a community online, for some it is supportive and beneficial while for others it can be more of a negative in preventing them from face to face interaction. Another idea that Baym reflects on is that in these shared communities and shared spaces, there is a shared sense of identity. People in these groups and communities related to each other over similar topics, issues, ideas and likes. The individual identities people may have can come together in a community to make a common shared identity. 

I find the points and ideas throughout this chapter to be incredibly valid. Just as anything with the digital age and being connected, there comes both negatives and positives. It is incredibly positive that communities such as support groups are created and there for those who feel they need someone to talk to. Particularly over tough times and issues, support groups can be a powerful thing. On the negative side being over involved and connected to these communities can take away from the benefits of face to face interaction. A face to face interaction and conversation in a supportive community can be intimidating, so for some an online community might be more comfortable. This is where the idea of "social norms" plays a huge role. I agree with this idea especially, that more and more society is finding these online communities and conversations to hold as much if not more water than real conversations. This has become a social norm today and its hard to think of how this in addition to these communities will impact our conversations and interpersonal relations in the future.