Last try at community
- Community: Community is what is formed when individuals come together through face to face or facilitated interaction. It is based on a shared since of interest in the interaction and the exchange of something of value (knowledge, money, expression, etc.).
- Is community possible online? Yes. While online interactions make community more difficult because of the clouded ideas of trust, reputation and identity, it is still possible.
- Is online community part of the problem or the solution? I feel when it is used correctly and part of a balanced communication life it can help to overcome some of the gaps created in our society. For example, in my research project I found that there are needs in the grieving process that are difficult for young individuals to fulfill through traditional means of communication. I don't think online community is part of the problem, unless individuals are substituting actual real-world community for online community.