In the following project, I intend to explore the social dynamics surrounding this relatively unexamined occurrence, whilst focusing specifically on the processes and motivations behind video sharing.
In the past decade alone, the aptly named “viral video” has progressed from a novel phenomenon, to an almost daily occurrence on the internet. These are defined by their capacity to spread through social media outlets at alarming rates, and gain the attention of staggering numbers of people throughout the world.
Importantly, the mass dissemination of these videos relies substantially on individuals choosing to share them online, through websites such as Facebook and Twitter.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- The Viral Video and the Response
- Sharing as a Social Act
- Mauss' Theory of Gift-Giving
- Sherry's (1983) Insights on Gift-Giving
- Geisler and Pohlmann (2003): The Gift of Information
- Identity and the Online World
- Wilson and Peterson (2002) on Online Communities
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This project aims to explore the social dynamics of viral video sharing and the motivations behind this phenomenon. It analyzes the "Charlie bit my finger - again!" video as a case study to understand the cultural significance and social impact of such videos. The project draws upon anthropological insights and theories of gift-giving, group membership, and online communities to understand the role of video sharing in constructing and affirming identities.
- The social impact of viral videos and video sharing
- The motivations behind video sharing
- The relationship between video sharing and gift-giving
- The role of online communities in shaping identity
- The influence of viral videos on cultural trends and social dynamics
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: This chapter introduces the concept of viral videos and their growing influence in the digital landscape. It outlines the research project's focus on the social dynamics of video sharing, particularly the motivations behind it.
- The Viral Video and the Response: This chapter provides context for the chosen viral video, "Charlie bit my finger - again!", and analyzes the reactions of the interviewees to its content. It explores the reasons behind the video's popularity and the role of immediacy, relatability, and humor in its success.
- Sharing as a Social Act: This chapter delves into the motivations behind video sharing, examining the interviewees' perspectives on the act of sharing and its relationship to social connections and self-expression. It discusses the potential for video sharing to be seen as a form of gift-giving.
- Mauss' Theory of Gift-Giving: This chapter explores Mauss' theory of gift-giving and its relevance to understanding video sharing. It examines the concepts of reciprocity, obligation, and the social bonds created through the exchange of gifts.
- Sherry's (1983) Insights on Gift-Giving: This chapter examines Sherry's work on gift-giving, focusing on the concept of intangible gifts and their role in social interactions. It argues that viral videos can be considered a form of intangible gift.
- Geisler and Pohlmann (2003): The Gift of Information: This chapter examines Geisler and Pohlmann's research on the gift of information, highlighting the social value and significance of sharing knowledge and experiences. It applies this concept to the sharing of viral videos.
- Identity and the Online World: This chapter explores the connection between video sharing and identity formation, examining how individuals use sharing to project and affirm their online identities. It draws on theories of group membership and online communities to understand these dynamics.
- Wilson and Peterson (2002) on Online Communities: This chapter examines Wilson and Peterson's work on online communities, focusing on the role of social interaction and shared interests in shaping online identities. It applies these insights to the context of viral video sharing.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This project focuses on the social impact of viral videos and video sharing, analyzing the motivations behind this phenomenon through the lens of gift-giving, identity formation, and online communities. Key themes include the cultural significance of viral videos, the role of social media in shaping online behavior, and the potential for video sharing to construct and affirm identities. The project draws upon theoretical frameworks from anthropology, sociology, and communication studies, including Mauss' theory of gift-giving, Sherry's insights on intangible gifts, Geisler and Pohlmann's work on the gift of information, and Wilson and Peterson's research on online communities.
- Quote paper
- Timothy McGlinchey (Author), 2015, Anthropology and "Charlie Bit My Finger". The Social Impact of Viral Videos and Video Sharing, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/322769
