Queer theory and digital anthropology share a common interest in studying the construction of gender and sexual identities. In recent years, they have developed powerful tools to analyze the relationship between technology and society, including immersive, mixedâ€'reality, avatarâ€'centric, blockchainâ€'mediated communities.
These approaches lack an understanding of embodied presence, identity negotiation, networked belonging, and their implications for queer individuals' lives. This article examines how these factors might shape emergent queer lifeworlds in digital spaces and suggests that queer belonging could evolve in unforeseeable ways.
Embodiment in immersive, mixedâ€'reality, avatarâ€'centric communities
In immersive, mixedâ€'reality, avatarâ€'centric communities, embodied presence is a key factor influencing users' perceptions of self and others. Digital anthropologists argue that embodiment involves more than just physicality; it also includes social, cultural, and psychological dimensions.
Some scholars suggest that virtual environments can provide new opportunities for exploring non-binary identities. Queer theorists add that such exploration requires recognition of bodily experience and its impact on power relations. These perspectives converge in suggesting that embodied presence shapes queer individuals' identities in complex ways.
Identity negotiation in blockchainâ€'mediated networks
Blockchain technologies enable decentralized networks where participants interact with each other through pseudonymous identities. Such networks offer unique opportunities for negotiating identity, as they allow users to create and control their own personas without revealing personal information. The resulting lack of transparency may create challenges for queer individuals seeking community and support.
Research shows that queer individuals are adept at navigating online anonymity to find meaningful connections.
Blockchain technology may facilitate alternative forms of accountability and trust, which could benefit marginalized groups like the LGBTQ+ community.
Networked belonging in emergent queer lifeworlds
Digital anthropology and queer theory explore how networked belonging shapes queer individuals' experiences. They posit that online spaces can foster both inclusion and exclusion, creating a mixed bag of possibilities for queer belonging.
Queer individuals may form communities based on shared interests or affinities rather than geography or demographics. But they may also face discrimination from mainstream culture due to their sexual orientation. In addition, some queer individuals may feel conflicted about balancing multiple identities online versus offline.
Digital anthropology and queer theory provide valuable insights into emerging queer lifeworlds. Embodiment, identity negotiation, and networked belonging all play critical roles in shaping these worlds. While it is impossible to predict the future of queer belonging in digital spaces, these perspectives suggest that queer individuals will continue to innovate and adapt to new technologies.