[LINK] Andrew Keene 'The Cult of the Amateur'

[Jan Whitaker]

Did any linkers see the New Hour on Tuesday where Andrew Keene talked 
about his views on the Internet? I wasn't listening closely until the 
end when he said one of the problems was the anonymous participation 
on the net, and that that has contributed to incivility.

I disagree. I think anonymity has its place. If one wants to say 
something intentionally provocative without revealing one's identity, 
shouldn't that be allowed? In times when governments are accusing 
people of 'thought crimes' when people disagree with the powerful, 
isn't anonymity a requirement, similar to the publications in 
revolutionary times in the American colonies?

Yes, there are lunatics on the net and raging testosterone that makes 
some online places unpalatable. So what? Isn't the solution for those 
who don't like those environments to leave, just as one does when 
they encounter such things if they don't like them in meat space?

Thoughts? Anyone read his book?

Jan

Jan Whitaker
JLWhitaker Associates, Melbourne Victoria
jwhit at janwhitaker.com
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Writing Lesson #78: In writing, 'do overs' are a 'good thing' -- and 
a requirement. - JW, Sept, 2007

Writing Lesson #54:
Learn to love revision. Think of it as polishing the silver for 
guests. - JW, May, 2007

'Seed planting is often the most important step. Without the seed, 
there is no plant.' - JW, April 2005
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