Rising up - virtual vs physical

[carpediem]

cathartic
adj 1: emotionally purging
2: emotionally purging (of e.g. art)
3: strongly laxative
n : a purging medicine; stimulates evacuation of the bowels




I love the internet. I work on it. I spend way too much time on it.

However, I think the internet is the reason we aren't seeing people rising up and protesting circa Vietnam' (physical)

If you have taken any psych classes you no doubt have heard about cathartic therapy ( see above ).

I am as guilty of this as anyone. When I hear something that makes me angry on the news instead of running out to protest I run to the web and look for people to rant to or who are ranting about the same thing. (virtual)

Once I get the anger off my chest, so to speak, I can go on about my normal life.

When I was in college (Connecticut College) I got involved when I was angry - I went public with my anger - today I go to the internet.

Anyone else feel this way?? just curious?? Ok, I can go back to my normal life now. rant over.

[leftofthedial]

1. i think you're right

but I wouldn't call that a rant.


there is also the preaching to the choir phenomenon online, where communities often are very insular.

[catzies]

2. So, are you saying that the online community has substituted

for direct and personal action for many people? I can agree with that.

For instance, Bush is going to be in my neck of the woods tomorrow, but since I can't be there I am forwarding the details of his visit to my friends who can be there.