Ep 3. Identity 2.0: Who Are We Now?

FORA TV: The Internet is a documentary series that explores the impact of the internet on our modern society. In season 4 episode 3, titled "Identity 2.0: Who Are We Now?", the show dives into the question of how our online identity reflects our true selves.

The episode begins by exploring how our online presence has become a crucial part of our daily lives. From social media platforms to online dating apps, our online identities are often extensions of our offline personas. But as the episode points out, our online identities also give rise to new questions about privacy and how much of our personal information we are willing to share with the world.

The episode then delves into the concept of Identity 2.0, which refers to the idea that our sense of self has evolved alongside the rise of the internet. In many ways, the internet has given us the ability to create and curate our own personal brand. We can choose how we present ourselves online, and in doing so, we are defining our own identities.

However, the episode also explores the darker side of online identity. Social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter have become a breeding ground for cyberbullying or harassment. The anonymity that the internet provides can sometimes lead to a detachment from empathy and consequence, resulting in people feeling emboldened to share hurtful comments or even death threats. The episode asks whether the internet can truly be a place for healthy self-expression and identity-building when confronted with these issues.

The episode also explores the ways in which our online identity intersects with our race, gender, and sexuality. The online world provides a space for marginalized communities to connect and express themselves in ways that they may not feel comfortable doing offline. However, online identity can also result in gatekeeping or social exclusion, as algorithms and moderation can sometimes suppress or marginalize certain voices on a platform.

Throughout the episode, a variety of experts are interviewed to provide context and insight into the topic of online identity. From psychologists to social media activists, the guests offer their perspectives on how our digital lives impact our sense of self.

Ultimately, "Identity 2.0: Who Are We Now?" raises more questions than it answers. The episode encourages viewers to consider how they define themselves online versus in their offline lives, and how they can navigate the challenges that come with building an online identity in a world that is constantly evolving.