In the article by Mark Memmot about the Germanwings Crash, he brings up a valid point that language is often misinterpreted and misused. When investigators called the crash a "suicide," they were not taking into consideration the literal definition, which caused many people to disagree. Since a large part of language is subjective, assumptions are often made, many of which are not legitimate. Often times this causes miscommunication and controversy.
When it comes to anonymity on the internet and social media such as Yik Yak, there should be limits. For example, each person should have to create a username, one that does not necessarily include the person's real name, that would appear on every post the person creates. In order to register, the person should have to put an email address. If that person is reported of harassing another person or people, the email address can be tracked, and the person may be punished. Although some might argue that this strategy is limiting people of their freedom of speech and expression of thoughts, it is in the best interest to protect Americans from harassment and potential harm. With that being said, it is difficult for an anonymous social media site, such as Yik Yak, to start out anonymous and then later have the anonymity taken away. That would make users feel like they have been stripped of their rights.
Kate, I also read the Yik Yak article and I agree with the solution you brought up, there is no reason people do not take responsibly for what they post. If you ask me it is not taking away their freedom of speech, it is just preventing people from hiding behind the keyboard of a computer! Great reflection.
ReplyDeleteKate, I believe in your solution to get the YikYak situation sorted out because of the freedom that was being lost day by day on that site. I enjoyed how you brought up the use of assumptions, which can make very powerful language false and undermine the audience.
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