The article discusses the impact of digital anthropology on queer subjectivities in virtual, mixed-reality, and avatar-based networked environments. It explores the potential for novel forms of embodied presence, identity negotiation, and community to emerge in this post-internet era. In such environments, queer belonging may evolve through the creation of new spaces for interaction, self-expression, and connection.
Digital anthropology is an interdisciplinary field that studies how humans interact with technology, particularly in online contexts. This includes examining how people construct identities, form communities, and engage in social interactions in virtual spaces. As technologies continue to advance, there has been growing interest in understanding the implications of these shifts for queer individuals and communities.
One way in which digital anthropology can deepen our understanding of evolving queer subjectivities is through the study of avatars, or digital representations of ourselves that are often used in virtual environments. Avatars allow users to create new personas and explore different aspects of their identities.
Some researchers have found that queer individuals may use avatars as a means of expressing their gender identity in ways that would be difficult or unsafe in physical spaces.
Avatars can provide a safe space for queer individuals to connect with others who share similar experiences.
Mixed-reality environments, such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), also offer unique opportunities for exploring queer subjectivities. These environments blend real and virtual worlds, allowing users to physically move through a simulated environment while remaining connected to their real-world surroundings. This can enable novel forms of embodied presence, where users' bodies become part of the digital landscape. Researchers have found that this can lead to new forms of intimacy and sensory experience, potentially opening up new possibilities for queer belonging.
As more and more people spend time in networked environments, it is likely that new community structures will emerge. Queer individuals may find themselves forming networks based on shared interests, affinities, and values rather than geographic proximity. This could lead to the creation of online subcultures and even offline gatherings.
There are also risks associated with these networks, particularly when it comes to issues like privacy, safety, and consent. Digital anthropology can help us understand how these concerns may affect queer communities and develop strategies for mitigating them.
Digital anthropology has the potential to deepen our understanding of evolving queer subjectivities in virtual, mixed-reality, and avatar-based networked environments. As these technologies continue to develop, we may see new forms of embodied presence, identity negotiation, and community emerge. It remains to be seen how these changes will impact queer belonging and what novel spaces for interaction, self-expression, and connection may arise.