Internet celebrities immediately came to mind for this topic. It is precisely because under the cover of digital media and packaging of companies, the side they show is often liked by the public. What they choose to share and how they present themselves on social media can significantly shape their digital identity. Take for example a blogger (Rea1yaoyue) I really like on Douyin (the Chinese version). She chooses to curate her online persona by shooting some cross-dressing videos. This self-presentation is a form of identity construction, with choices made that reflect one’s values, interests, and self-image. Here is a video.
Interaction and feedback play a vital role in the digital world. Because a small like, comment and share will affect their perception of themselves. As Internet celebrities, their popularity and attention are much higher than ordinary people, so if there is any slight disturbance, everyone will know about it in the digital world. Let’s still give an example about her. As an Internet celebrity with tens of millions of fans, she was previously reported to have abused cats and instigated her fans to ridicule others. I can’t remember the rest, after all, it happened two or three years ago. In this case, there is no doubt that she suffered cyberbullying. When it happened, I was just an ordinary high school student and couldn’t do anything for her. Because I know that the truth is often on the side of the public opinion leader. Internet violence is particularly terrifying. It is enough to make a person depressed and bear the abuse of others for no reason. It can be seen that interaction and reply in the digital world are particularly critical.
This is also a vulnerability and challenge that Internet celebrities face because the lines between their private and public lives are blurred. Because everything she says and does has a potential impact on those who follow her. Regardless of whether she had abused the cat or not, this was morally wrong. Although in the end, everyone knew that she did not do this, of course this is all a story later. Internet celebrities must be aware of their responsibilities and the impact of their actions.
Thank you for you reading and hope I can listen your suggestions.
Hi,Yuning, your understanding of establishing internet celebrities is very good, and it also explains the problems and responsibilities that internet celebrities need to face. I fully agree with the viewpoint you mentioned in your blog. Although some well-known bloggers may have some incorrect words and actions, using online violence cannot solve the problem.
Hi, Yunning, your exploration of identity construction in the digital realm, focusing on online celebrities, is thought-provoking. The case of Douban blogger Rea1yaoyue exemplifies the thoughtful choices individuals make in shaping their digital personas. The interplay of self-presentation, values and interests in the online realm highlights the nuances of identity formation. Furthermore, your emphasis on the impact of interaction and feedback highlights the vulnerability of online celebrities and the blurred lines between private and public life. It is a compelling reminder of these figures’ responsibility to influence their wider audiences and navigate the potential consequences of their behaviour in an ever-connected digital world.
Hi, Hankun! Thank you so much for your comment.