In our internet crazed society, people are online more than ever. Some even have multiple social media profiles or sites, such as Facebook, Twitter, even the new Google+. On Facebook profiles, for example, people have the option to fill in what they want in their about me and interests column. The internet makes a way for people to express themselves in every way possible. Twitter goes as far as even not caring what your real name is.
In this article, CEO of Twitter Dick Costolo mentions that Twitter, in particular, only wants to connect the person to they information they care about, and doesn't really care what the username is. While most sites do require you to list your name, who is to know it's your real name? Who is to know the person behind the name is the person they say they are? In our world of cyberspace, nobody really knows.
Whether using Twitter, Facebook, Blogger, Wordpress, Flickr or any other social networking site, you can become anyone you want to. With these sites, you have the option deactivate them, delete, hide, block, censor, etc. anytime you would like. You can be an open book, or more private. You can be a happy person one day, and an angry person the next. What one couldn't, or wouldn't, normally do in person or in a real life situation, they can do over the internet.
Online Identity is certainly not a thing of the past. In a society where we are judged or stereotyped more than ever, online identity has become an outlet, or safety net for people who want a confidence boost. While there is cyber bulling and some not so friendly users online, it's still a safety zone for those who feel the need to opt out of who they really are. These social networking sites, in particular, have allowed people to change their identities several times, if they wish. Can we even trust everyone online anymore? Can we believe that EVERYONE is who they say they are? Probably not.
In all honestly, who wouldn't want that chance to become someone they feel they cannot be anywhere other than online? Without a doubt, I believe that this online identity people are creating for themselves is not only boosting their confidence, but giving them a sense of happiness they never had before. Not all of us have to agree and think creating these identities is the right thing to do, but we can't ignore the fact that people do it. We can't stop anyone from doing it. People will only continue to embrace their online identity.
