Week 3 - topic 2.

A) Is withholding one’s identity ethically wrong?
- I have mixed opinions about this one. I think withholding or hiding your identity online is fine, as long as you aren't pretending to be someone you are not. As long as you aren't pusposley changing who you are, or trying to manipulate people online on a personal level, I don't see a massive problem with this.

B) Should we always use our full name?
- I don't think it is neccessary to use our full names when using online forums, blogs, chatrooms etc. I think it is up to the individual whether they reveal there full name or not, but I don't think we should have to at all. For the sake of privacy, I sometimes think it's best not to, as theres clever people out there, and with knowledge of your full name they could attempt to track you on the internet, leading into all types of problems.

C) Far from adopting a ‘mask’, isn’t one appeal of the Net that you can express your true self among like minds?
- I think this is pretty true yes. Specialst forums are designed so you cam communicate and talk to people with a similar interest. For example, people who are into a niche market, such as comics or a particular type of music or band sign up to the available forums with the intentions of communicating with people who are htere for the same reaosn as them - because of their interest in the particlar field.

D)What kinds of risk are involved in online self-expression? Online relationships?
- I don't agree with online relationships. How do you know that the person you are talking to is genuine? How do you know that the photos they post are actually them? The person they say they are is actually who they are? You don't. Fair enough, in some cases online relationships can be a success, but only if you actually meet the person. But thats a bad idea in itself. I don't personally see the appeal. Yeah, okay, so your Mr.Perfect may be out there online somewhere, but for every nice person theres probably millions of not so nice ones. Its just too much of a risk to take.

E) If you are participating in online social interaction might you shape your identity and expression to ‘fit’ that group?
- I wouldn't myself, but I can see why people would/do. Online, you can be who you want to be. I can understand that people with self confidence issues or low self esteem might alter themselves to make them feel better, or just for the adreneline of being someone else. It's like a fantasy world, make belief, not real. Personally I'd rather be myself and not conform to changing myself to be like others, but it happens, and I can understand why.