The use of digital platforms has transformed the way people interact socially, politically, and economically. For the LGBTQIA+ community, these platforms have had a particularly profound impact on their sense of identity, activism, and sociality. Digital platforms have allowed individuals to connect with each other across vast distances and form communities that were previously inaccessible due to geographical constraints or stigma surrounding queerness.
This increased accessibility comes with its own set of ethical challenges, including the rise of algorithmic governance and the potential for harmful community norms to be codified into the platform's algorithms. In this essay, I will explore how digital platforms shape queer sociality, activism, and identity formation while highlighting the ethical challenges that arise from algorithmic and community governance.
Digital Platforms and Queer Sociality
One of the most significant ways that digital platforms have shaped queer sociality is through facilitating connections between members of the LGBTQIA+ community who may otherwise never meet. These platforms provide a safe space where users can express themselves freely without fear of judgment or repercussions from others. This has led to an increase in the visibility of queer culture and a greater awareness of queer identities within society.
These platforms allow for virtual communities to form around shared interests such as music, art, fashion, and activism.
Activism on Digital Platforms
These same platforms also present unique challenges when it comes to organizing political action. The ease with which information can be shared on these platforms means that they are often used by those seeking to disrupt and undermine progressive movements.
The right-wing media outlet Breitbart has been accused of using Facebook advertising to spread misinformation about transgender people and their rights. Similarly, the use of Twitter has been linked to the rise of online harassment and abuse directed at individuals and groups engaged in progressive politics. As such, digital platforms pose both risks and opportunities for queer activists seeking to effect change.
Algorithmic Governance and Community Norms
Another challenge posed by digital platforms is the emergence of algorithms that dictate what content is allowed and how it is displayed. These algorithms are designed to promote engagement but can also reinforce harmful stereotypes and perpetuate oppressive norms.
YouTube's recommendation algorithm has been criticized for promoting videos that sexualize and objectify women while simultaneously censoring LGBTQIA+ content. This raises important questions about the ethics of platform governance and who gets to define acceptable speech and behavior online.
Digital platforms have transformed the way we understand and interact with each other. While they have opened up new avenues for sociality, activism, and identity formation, they also present significant ethical challenges related to governance and community norms. It is crucial that we continue to critically engage with these issues and work towards creating safe and inclusive spaces for all marginalized communities on these platforms.
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How do digital platforms shape queer sociality, activism, and identity formation, and what ethical challenges arise from algorithmic and community governance?
Digital platforms have significantly shaped LGBTQ+ sociality, activism, and identity formation in multiple ways. Throughout history, queer people have often been marginalized, stigmatized, and discriminated against, making it difficult for them to find supportive communities and connect with others who share their experiences.