Strength through community

Membership in a community goes some way towards influencing the self-perception and world views among users. By becoming a member, users define to a certain extent who they are or would like to be. These identities experience mutual reinforcement within the community. In extreme cases this may lead to disconnection from the „outside world“. Interpreted positively, the social dynamism within the communities generates constructive energy.

Interests become claims within communities. Self-assurance emerges along with the ability to externalise interests. However, the strength of a community is not necessarily directed outward. Self- help is an aspect of participation on the Net that has seen high levels of study. And „empowerment“ grows from this self-help, improving the ability to handle one’s own needs and challenges with aplomb – whether it be as a student, an artist or a cancer patient.

„Empowerment“ is a common thread running through research into participation. Yet nevertheless it remains as complex and multifaceted as the term of participation itself. How is „empowerment“ defined and measured? What are its effects? Does „empowerment“ lead to social transformation – should it strike fear into established institutions? Many questions remain unanswered. But the fol- lowing is clear: Participation on the Internet is based on a social dynamism that carries the individual and hence has psychological roots, also.