Who Do I Want to Be Today?

Conclusions

I think this study has clarified (at least for me) something that the literature so far has only hinted at or implied. My study demonstrates that 'identity as performance' can be used not only to explore what it's like on the 'other side,' but also to carefully 'try out' attitudes or beliefs which one is (at least initially) afraid of trying iRL. Furthermore, these attempts may seem individually insignificant, but each in their own small way acts to subvert the dominant paradigm. As a single example, MU*s and being masked allow individuals to try non-binary expressions of sexuality, and then apply a pastiche of what is learned to RL. It is occurrences such as these that will ultimately disrupt and (more importantly) demystify the current status quo that naturalizes RL societal patriarchy.

I believe this is a good thing. I would suggest other researchers further explore and encourage this form of self-expression. CMC and its pseudonymous nature offers its users a chance to be whomever they wish, to try on any attitude and any belief, for as long or short a time as they feel comfortable with. How will the effects of this virtual revolution impact RL society? Only further research can tell us for sure. But the window of opportunity to learn this will not last for long. Already RL means of identification are being tested for net use. Net voice transmission and visual connections will soon be commonplace. Will net identity deception increase as a result? Will we, once again, log on and ask ourselves, 'Who do I want to be today?'