Is There a There in Cyberspace?
9 hours ago
- #human-connection
- #technology-and-society
- #virtual-communities
- The author reflects on the transition from physical communities like Pinedale, Wyoming, to virtual communities like the WELL.
- He discusses the decline of rural communities due to economic forces and the rise of suburban homogeneity.
- The author explores the concept of virtual community through his experiences with the WELL and the Grateful Dead's fanbase, the Deadheads.
- He highlights the lack of diversity and essential human elements like body language and shared adversity in virtual spaces.
- The author questions whether virtual communities can replace the depth and richness of physical communities.
- Despite the shortcomings, he acknowledges the solace and connection found in virtual communities during personal tragedies.
- The author concludes that while virtual communities have limitations, they offer a new frontier for human connection and should be approached with hope.