I used to be a "Lurker"

It‘s almost comical how long it has taken me to become a contributor to the online community. To the online community I would be referred to as a lurker. The word “lurker” sounds evil but in reality a lurker is someone who reads and observes social networks but rarely contributes. I compare it to the student in the back of the classroom that never participates in the discussions but knows the content as well or better than those students participating. Apparently, I haven’t been alone but times are rapidly changing and people are joining in.

Social networking has several good, bad, and ugly aspects. Just like face to face social networks there are actors and talkers and then there are observers and listeners. Maybe it was something carried over from my generation of passive TV watchers where only a few provided the content and the rest of us passively consumed the information. Maybe I like to get my bearings’ straight and learn about the participants in different groups. Sometimes the discussions can get so rude and vulgar no one would want to participate.

Another reason is fear. Irrational fear, probably, but I think more related to human nature than a legitimate reason. We have all heard about the evil criminals on the web who are out to get us. There are legitimate concerns, especially for children, but I have learned overtime the risks are manageable. I think the more prevalent and dangerous threat is from aggressive advertisers.

Trust is another motive for lurking instead of participating. Can I trust the information? Is the person I am communicating with lying about who they are and what they represent? Does it matter how others represent themselves? Should I use my real name or a false name? How much information is too much?

Many postings on the web are just plain silly and I usually ignore them. I am sure some friends and family think I am a snob when I don’t participate in inconsequential quizzes, surveys, and other irritating applications on sites like Facebook. Some of these applications do encourage other to participate so they may not be all bad. Personally, I would rather someone just say hello.

The time spent observing, has giving me the chance to get the bigger picture of what is out there and ignore what is irrelevant or inappropriate. Lurking has allowed me to become comfortable and trust my judgment about posting my ideas, comments, and views. I have been able to evaluate how I will represent myself and my ideals. I often ask the question, “How will I make a difference?”

Today people are participating in record numbers in a variety of different social network sites. I often wonder what the future holds in the midst of such exposed communication. It is definitely changing the way we communicate in society today. There is a wonderful video that provides and unique perspective on how communication is changing though social networks. The Machine is (Changing) Us: YouTube and the Politics of Authenticity, created by Dr. Wesch, an Anthropology Professor from Kansas State University, and his students.

So my time to join the conversation has arrived. I can no longer be the lurker but a full blown participant in this communication revolution. I hope you will join me in the conversation.