Gatekeeping | Vibepedia
Gatekeeping refers to the practice of controlling access to a particular group, community, or field of knowledge, often by setting arbitrary standards or…
Contents
Overview
Gatekeeping is a phenomenon that has been observed in various online communities, including social media platforms like Twitter and Reddit, as well as specialized forums and discussion groups. According to researchers like danah boyd and Henry Jenkins, gatekeeping can be a major obstacle to online participation and engagement, particularly for marginalized or underrepresented groups. For example, the online community surrounding the TV show 'Rick and Morty' has been known to be particularly toxic and gatekeeper-y, with some fans attacking newcomers for not being 'true' fans. This kind of behavior can be seen in other online communities, such as the 'incel' movement, which has been linked to extremist ideologies and violent behavior.
👥 Gatekeeping in Online Communities
In online communities, gatekeeping can take many forms, from requiring new members to prove their knowledge or credentials, to excluding individuals who do not conform to certain norms or standards. As noted by experts like Whitney Phillips and Ryan Milner, gatekeeping can be a way for individuals to assert their power and status within a community, often at the expense of others. For example, the online forum '4chan' has been known to be a hotbed of gatekeeping, with users often attacking and harassing newcomers for not being 'cool' or 'edgy' enough. This kind of behavior can be seen in other online communities, such as the 'gamer' community, which has been linked to sexist and misogynistic attitudes towards women.
🚫 The Impact of Gatekeeping
The impact of gatekeeping can be significant, both for individuals and for communities as a whole. According to researchers like Annette Markham and Nancy Baym, gatekeeping can lead to feelings of exclusion and marginalization, particularly for individuals who are already vulnerable or underrepresented. For example, the gatekeeping surrounding the 'cosplay' community has been known to be particularly toxic, with some individuals attacking and harassing others for not being 'good enough' or 'authentic' enough. This kind of behavior can have serious consequences, including anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. As noted by experts like Kate Miltner and Ian MacInnes, gatekeeping can also stifle creativity and innovation, by excluding individuals who may have new and valuable perspectives to offer.
🌐 Overcoming Gatekeeping
Overcoming gatekeeping requires a nuanced and multifaceted approach, one that takes into account the complex dynamics of online communities and the motivations of individuals involved. According to experts like Ethan Zuckerman and Rebecca MacKinnon, this can involve creating more inclusive and welcoming spaces, where individuals feel valued and respected. For example, the online community surrounding the 'open source' movement has been known to be particularly inclusive and welcoming, with individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives coming together to collaborate and share knowledge. As noted by experts like Clay Shirky and Yochai Benkler, this kind of approach can have significant benefits, including increased creativity, innovation, and social cohesion.
Key Facts
- Year
- 2010
- Origin
- Online communities and social media platforms
- Category
- culture
- Type
- concept
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gatekeeping?
Gatekeeping refers to the practice of controlling access to a particular group, community, or field of knowledge, often by setting arbitrary standards or requirements.
Why is gatekeeping a problem?
Gatekeeping can lead to feelings of exclusion and marginalization, particularly for individuals who are already vulnerable or underrepresented. It can also stifle creativity and innovation, by excluding individuals who may have new and valuable perspectives to offer.
How can we overcome gatekeeping?
Overcoming gatekeeping requires a nuanced and multifaceted approach, one that takes into account the complex dynamics of online communities and the motivations of individuals involved. This can involve creating more inclusive and welcoming spaces, where individuals feel valued and respected.
What are some examples of gatekeeping?
Examples of gatekeeping include the online community surrounding the TV show 'Rick and Morty', the 'incel' movement, and the 'gamer' community. These communities have been known to be particularly toxic and gatekeeper-y, with individuals attacking and harassing newcomers for not being 'true' fans or not conforming to certain norms or standards.
How can we create more inclusive online communities?
Creating more inclusive online communities requires a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. This can involve setting clear community guidelines and norms, providing support and resources for marginalized or underrepresented individuals, and fostering a culture of respect and empathy.