Identity is now constructed through profiles in the era of social media and new media, challenging the traditional notions of authenticity.
Social media has led to the development of multiple identities for different contexts, blurring the lines between our online and offline selves.
The future of identity lies in immersive spaces like the metaverse and virtual reality, where individuals can explore and experiment with different aspects of their identity.
Deep dives
The Shift from Authenticity to Profilicity
In this podcast episode, the discussion revolves around the shift from authenticity to profilicity in the modern world. Profilicity refers to the fluid and multifaceted nature of identity in the era of social media and new media. It is argued that our identity is now constructed through profiles, and the way we perceive and interact with others is also shaped by these profiles. The concept of identity politics is explored, highlighting the dangers and limitations of basing politics on identity. The podcast delves into the impact of profiling data, both at an individual and collective level, as well as the implications of the rise of the multiverse or metaverse on identity. Overall, it challenges the traditional notions of authenticity and emphasizes the need for a more playful and nuanced approach to identity in the future.
The Evolution of Identity in the Modern World
The conversation in this podcast episode reflects on the evolution of identity in contemporary society. It acknowledges the significant shift towards constructing identities in the form of profiles, influenced by the rise of new media and social media platforms. The notion of authenticity is questioned, suggesting that identity is no longer tied to fixed roles in society but is instead more fluid and adaptable. The discussion also explores the impact of social networking services on the creation of new norms and expectations, leading to the development of multiple identities for different contexts. The guests contemplate whether our identity has become more complex or simpler due to the choices and homogenization present in the online environment. Overall, the episode provokes reflection on the drivers of change and the current state of identity in today's world.
Understanding Identity and its Profiling
This podcast episode delves into the topic of identity, profiling, and data-driven insights. The conversation explores the notion of identity as a construction of profiles, particularly in the age of new media and social media. It discusses the role of identity politics and the potential dangers associated with it. The podcast also delves into the use of profiling data, such as search data, at both individual and collective levels, shedding light on its implications and limitations. The concept of the 'real self' is scrutinized, questioning its relevance in the modern world. Additionally, the guests envision the future of identity in the multiverse or metaverse, emphasizing the need for a more playful and nuanced understanding of identity as we navigate evolving digital landscapes.
The Jeopardy of Identity in the Current Era
This podcast episode delves into the potential jeopardy faced by individuals in terms of their identity. The discussion highlights the changing dynamics of identity politics, where pride in one's identity or certain attributes can lead to punishment or cancellation. The negative impact of shame and the dangers of magnifying moral language and moral communication are also addressed. The conversation touches upon the future of identity in immersive environments, such as the multiverse, metaverse, and virtual reality. While exploring the challenges and risks inherent in these environments, the guests emphasize the importance of maintaining a sense of playfulness and approaching identity with a more nuanced perspective to navigate the evolving digital landscape in a healthy and sustainable manner.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Identity
The podcast episode contemplates the future of identity in the context of emerging technologies and virtual environments. The guests discuss the potential evolution of identity in immersive spaces like the metaverse and virtual reality. While acknowledging the risks associated with commercialization and financialization, they envision a future where individuals can explore different aspects of their identity in gaming environments and social/professional interactions in virtual reality. The importance of maintaining a sense of autonomy and playfulness in identity experiences is highlighted. The podcast encourages embracing the fluidity of identity and the possibilities for richer experiences and connections in future virtual spaces.
Is the huge variety of social platforms and settings in which we present ourselves creating a multiplicity of our identities, demanding that we moderate our personalities? And is that such a bad thing?
From the Chinese philosophy suggesting that sincerity trumps authenticity, to the future technologies ushering in an era of profilicity, the norms that surround identity are changing during our lifetime.
Joining me to help foresee where our technology of identity is heading - in this truly international episode - are Hans-Georg Moeller, Professor of Philosophy at the University of Macau, and Sam Gilbert, an Affiliated Researcher with the Bennett Institute for Public Policy at the University of Cambridge.
This episode of The Future of You covers:
Use of data to create a picture of someone’s identity, and how that could be used for wider public benefit
The multiplicity of identity through social media sites with different norms and expectation
A modern sense of profilicity, and how that links with ancient Chinese philosophies
How AI might allow us to curate identity in a new way with a novel sense of self-insight
The need to leave authenticity behind in favour of situational sincerity
This episode does contain a brief discussion eluding to self-harm, suicide, and how we might use data to identify those in need. If you or somebody you know is in need, Samaritans are available by phoning 116 123.
