Rhizome Experiment, Fall 2015

Self: Conclusion

The self is composed of many fragmented segments. While the virtual self can be an extension of reality, it can also be the materialized desires of the self in the real world. Once in the online realm, that version of self can evolve and develop its own social sense of normalcy and identity. Following in the idea of techne, we actively decide how to engage in these machinic assemblages and through simulation, virtual games, and social media develop a new extension and variation of our self. This triggers the haunting of our virtual self in reality. Despite an physical divisions or separation along the axis of time or space, simulation provokes an emotional haunting that comes to shape our reality. Additionally, haunting facilitates the coalescence of the virtual and the real into a singular, ambiguous definition of self.
 
The version that we choose to show to the public is crafted in a way that we are able to maintain control over the image and what is perceived of us. We have become dependent and nearly obsessed in engaging in social media or some version of virtual simulation or play, however simultaneously seek an advantageous power dynamic. When this activity or participation is monitored or limited, is an assault on our ability to explore and reformulate our identity and on our right to privacy. By unilaterally standing against this threat, people are freeing themselves from the horror or tech and seizing control of their concept of self.
 

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