1. Representing Bodies in Virtual Space: The Rhetoric of Avatar Design. Beth, Kolko Information Society; Jul-Sep99, Vol. 15 Issue 3, p177-186
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This article discusses communication in online virtual communities. Ideas of virtual gender are discussed, and how online interaction is affected by gender (“how a gendered body in virtual space will affect communication patterns”). As Kolko discusses, virtual communities used to be assumed places free of prejudice. Users assumed they would escape the pressures and restrictions of the real world in these virtual places where much of the true identity is hidden. This is discussed as the “disappearing body.” In fact, the portray of gender online follow stereotypes as well. This is incredible useful to my exploration of gender represented on virtual communities.
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2. Rape in Cyberspace Dibbell, Julian |
This article covers the story and discussion of the virtual rape of avatar, exu and others by the avatar Mr. Bungle. This article discusses these events on the online textual community, or MUDD, "LambdaMOO". The rape was not with graphic characters, but with words alone. Though the acts were not physical or even vocal, it is argued that the consequential emotions are very “true.” It seems that like anything, this virtual world can be used for malicious acts.
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3. Gender Differences in Virtual Negotiation: Theory and Research Alice F. Stuhlmacher & Maryalice Citera & Toni Willis Sex Roles; Sep2007, Vol. 57 Issue 5/6, p329-339 |
This article addresses the broader issue of virtual communication patterns based on gender. The author researched the different patterns of communication via email based on men and women.
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4. What Happens in a Virtual World Has a Real-World Impact, a Scholar Finds Foster, Andrea L. Chronicle of Higher Education; 4/4/2008, Vol. 54 Issue 30, pA14-A14 |
This article explores the way that people are changed after experiencing virtual world communication and interactions. This article will aid effectively in the "Rape" section of my discussion. This article is useful for my discussion because it discusses that Virtual identities affect one's real or "first" identity. Then perhaps, this SL is not a refuge as many maintain?
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5. I, Avatar: The culture and consequences of having a second life Mark Stephen Meadows British Journal of Educational Technology; May2009, Vol. 40 Issue 3, p577-580 |
Meadows discusses the uses of avatars on Virtual worlds. This article is useful for my exploration because it touches on the possibility that Virtual Worlds have a darker side to them, that they are in fact no Utopia, as many believe and maintain. The article also discusses how one sets up one's virtual identity, which is useful in my exploration of Second Life and its uses. |
6. Sex Lives in Second Life Robert Alan Brookey & Kristopher L. Cannon Critical Studies in Media Communication; Jun2009, Vol. 26 Issue 2, p145-164 |
This article examines gender and sexual identities in virtual communities. However, the article maintiains that the “online sexual and gender play that objectifies women and marginalizes queer identities.” This article critically examines sex lives in virtual communities that will aid in my exploratory essay on gender. This article is extremely useful for my discussion of Second Life identities, as it covers relationships about sex and gender. |
7. Flamethrowers, Slashers and Witches: Gendered Communication in a Virtual Community. Qualitative Research Reports in Communication; Spring2001, Vol. 2 Issue 2, p33-41 Vrooman, Steven |
This article is useful to my argument because it discusses reported cases of rape and harassment on Virtual Worlds. It will be especially important on the section of "rape" in my Hypertext. This shows the perpetuation of sexisim and sexual inequality on Cyperspace. |