Pitfalls of the read-write web

Both of the articles were concerned with the growing use of sites such as myspace and facebook by today's young adults. Most of the "adult world" views these websites as and what some participants post as derogatory, profane, and perhaps dangerous. The members of these blog-based communities view these sites as a mode of expression and overall just a way to have fun and talk to friends. Almost every teen that uses these sites would argue that it is their right to display whatever they want on "theirspace." Most adults on the other hand think that some guidlines, moderation, or at least consequences should be enacted. Who is right?

I personally do not have a myspace, facebook, or any other type of account. I have a personal distaste for such displays of privacy, but I see how others can find a sense of ownership in such a thing as a myspace profile. You can broadcast yourself as you want to be seen and see what others think of themselves. Also, one can chat with friends and compare silly quotes or pictures that he/she found with a friend. On the other hand, what some people choose to display on these sites can be at the least crude, rude, and politically and morally wrong.

Like I said, I do not have such an account of my own, but on occasion I will be with my friends or my girlfriend while she is on her myspace. I find what some people post to be quite disturbing. It would be a lie for me to suggest that I have not heard of teen sex and drug abuse. In fact, at this age it is kind of the norm for at least some degree of these things to happen around you, no matter who you are or where you are from. It is a different story when a 13 year old girl can post half nude pictures of herself online for millions to see. I have seen blogs about acts of violence, pot smoking, drinking, sex, and that is only the beginning. Worse, some boys openly harass girls, most that they do not even know, for sexual favors. The girls are far from innocent, though. Online a woman's body is viewed as a commodity, and that is only the fault of the girls that, for some reason feel the need to post pictures of scantly clad bodies. Is this for attention? If so, there are plenty of more constructive ways to get attention.

In my opinion, it is completely fair game for employers to look at a potential employee's blog page. It shows vital character information that would be almost impossible to attain in an interview. Maybe the fear of possible job turn-downs will help some of these kids to grow up. In reality, I know it will never stop because kids have always been doing these things. The difference is now its broadcasted to millions. I will not participate in it. I cannot say "stop," I can only suggest that members of these sites watch how they portray themselves.