MIGRAIN: Representing ourselves - identity in the online age

1) Read the article and summarise each section in one sentence, starting with the section 'Who are you?'

'Who are you?'

The idea that our appearance is a direct representation of our complex identity, and that it's all a statement for what we are and stand for.

'I Think, therefore I am'

We are all a product of our society, therefore you will base your self image on things that are predetermined for you (Some more than others) such as religion, social class, ethnicity/race and gender.

'From citizen to consumer'

the idea that companies began focusing on things not needed, but things that are wanted and try to tempt people to go forth and buy what they desire, and not what they need. A big part of this being the "id" which is the irrational thinking that a person has about things they deeply desire, whether it be good or bad.

'The rise of the individual'

The idea that people are more than just an identity but in fact several identities that change depending on the current circumstances such as finances and relationships. 

'Branding and lifestyle'

The idea that advertisers sell a personality, and leave connotations of that product being what a consumer needs to achieve that. This suggestion is made to sell people that idea that they can become who-ever and what-ever they want to be.

'Who will we be

The idea that we we use social media profiles to present to other people, not exactly what and who we are but instead what we want to become.

2) List five brands you are happy to be associated with and explain how they reflect your sense of identity.

Youtube

Youtube is a open and free place where you can publicly and openly share anything you've created and to anyone in the world. 

Apple

Apple because they believe in individuality and being an individual reformer instead of a follower (despite being a multi-billion dollar company)

Nike

Nike because their belief is performance and physical ability is key.

3) Do you agree with the view that modern media is all about 'style over substance'? What does this expression mean?

To an extent yes, because all over social medias you will see people trying to look their best aesthetically yet show very little substance. The meaning behind this expression suggests that people are online to sell their looks and personality despite the reality being that you see very little 'substance' and a lot more of 'style'.

4) Explain Baudrillard's theory of 'media saturation' in one paragraph. You may need to research it online to find out more.

5) Is your presence on social media an accurate reflection of who you are? Have you ever added or removed a picture from a social media site purely because of what it says about the type of person you are?

No, I don't post much on social medias and when I do it tends to be reasonably accurate. 

6) What is your opinion on 'data mining'? Are you happy for companies to sell you products based on your social media presence and online search terms? Is this an invasion of privacy?