Artifact #6 Response

      4chan is a Web site that allows people to post pictures and comments with complete anonymity. It was created by a teenager named Chris after he saw a Japanese Web site that was set up in a forum that contained an image board. Chris initially set up the Web site to allow his friends to use and communicate with each other. There is no registration set up and there are no traces of what people post. Comments and threads often only last a few days before being taken off the Internet. The Web site took off and currently has over seven million monthly visitors, along with 700,000 posts per day. Because of its anonymity, the Web site has been very controversial. People often post comments with vulgar language and there have been issues regarding child pornography and animal abuse. In one instance, a man was posting videos of him abusing a cat. Followers of the site were able to create a huge support group that was able to gather enough information about this guy and have him tried in court. Other things have been able to generate great popularity and huge followings through this site. There are varying degrees of positive and negative effects that have come from this site. People are able to say whatever they want and express themselves, but at the same time, words can be hurtful and cause damage to others. Although this site is extremely popular, Chris is not making much money from it because of its adult content and harsh language.
      I have never even heard of this site before. I can see why it has become such a big hit. The thing that scares most people about using the Internet is that their path can be traced and other people can look up where they've been and the things they've posted online. People don't want to be jeopardizing their own plans by saying something online that could be held against them in the future. This site provides people with an outlet to share their thoughts and feelings without worrying about the consequences. This can be a good or bad thing. It depends on how you look at it. Some people may see it as a freedom from responsibility while others may see it as a place to be themselves and share their true feelings. I guess it really just depends on the actions people take when using the site. I noticed that Chris said the main reason he set this site up was so that his friends could use it. It shows that technology does not always shape our society by its intended use, rather how the public perceives this new technology and goes about using it. Personally, I think it is a great place to share your thoughts and not worry about them being held against you. These days, most people are using social networking sites that require registration and are able to record your information and any comments or posts that you have published. This site creates a breather from other people watching your every step and recording your every thought.