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Exercise 5.1 -

Digital Identities
Exercise: 4.1
The Creation of False or Alternative Identities Online: A Complex Web of Deception
Introduction:
The internet has brought about many connectivity, communication, and information exchange opportunities. However, it has also given rise to a darker aspect of human behaviour – creating false or alternative identities online. This phenomenon, commonly known as catfishing, involves individuals fabricating personas, disguising their true selves, and navigating the virtual world under the guise of someone else. This essay explores the motivations behind the creation of false identities, its consequences on individuals and society, and the challenges associated with combating this pervasive online deception.
Motivations:
The motivations behind creating false identities online are multifaceted and often deeply rooted in psychological, social, and personal factors. One primary driver is the desire for anonymity. Some individuals feel empowered by the ability to detach from their real-life persona and engage in online interactions without fear of judgment or repercussions. This anonymity can encourage people to express opinions, engage in activities, or form connections that they might shy away from in their offline lives.
Another common motivation is the pursuit of attention and validation. In an era dominated by social media, the comparison between popularity, recognition, and self-worth tempts individuals to create embellished personas to garner admiration and praise. False identities designed to embody qualities or achievements the individual feels are lacking in real life provide a sense of fulfilment and acceptance from others.
Furthermore, some individuals resort to false identities to escape reality. The internet offers an escape from the challenges and hardships of everyday life, allowing individuals to immerse themselves in a fantasy world where they can be whoever they want to be. This escapism can particularly appeal to those facing personal struggles, loneliness, or a sense of inadequacy.
Consequences:
The creation of false identities online can profoundly affect individuals and society. At the individual level, those who engage in catfishing may experience a disconnection from their true selves, leading to a distorted self-perception. The emotional toll of maintaining a facade can result in anxiety, guilt, and a deepening sense of isolation.
In the realm of interpersonal relationships, the consequences are equally significant. Victims of catfishing may experience emotional trauma when they discover that the person they believed they were connecting with does not exist. Trust in anybody is a hugely important trait, and the aftermath can lead to reluctance to engage in future online or offline relationships.
At a societal level, the prevalence of false identities contributes to the erosion of trust within online communities. Scepticism and doubt may permeate online interactions, hindering genuine connections and collaboration. Additionally, spreading misinformation through false identities can have real-world consequences, influencing public opinion and political discourse.
Challenges and Solutions:
Combating the creation of false identities online poses significant challenges. The internet's anonymity makes it difficult to verify individuals' authenticity, creating a breeding ground for deception. However, technological advancements and increased awareness can help address this issue.
Improved identity verification measures and increased user education are crucial steps in mitigating the prevalence of false identities. Platforms can implement more robust authentication processes to ensure the legitimacy of user profiles. Simultaneously, educating users about the potential risks and consequences of online deception can empower them to make informed decisions and exercise caution in their interactions.
Conclusion:
The creation of false or alternative identities online is a complex phenomenon deeply intertwined with human psychology, societal dynamics, and the evolving landscape of the internet. While motivations vary, the consequences are far-reaching, affecting individuals and society. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing technological innovations, user education, and a collective effort to foster a more trustworthy online environment. We can only navigate the intricate web of deception woven by false identities in the digital realm through awareness, vigilance, and ethical responsibility.
Research Point 1 (Optional)
Henner is not alone in appropriating imagery from Google Earth and Streetview; others
include Michael Wolf, Jon Rafman and David Thomas Smith. If you’re interested in this topic,
you may want to research the work of some or all of these practitioners.
Michael Wolf
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Michael Wolfe is a contemporary artist known for his innovative use of technology and digital sources, particularly leveraging Google as a tool in his artistic process. His work often explores the intersection of technology, information, and contemporary culture, reflecting on how these elements shape our understanding of the world. Wolfe frequently draws upon images and data from Google’s vast search engine, incorporating them into his artistic creations to comment on the overwhelming presence of digital information in our lives.
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One of Wolfe’s key approaches is appropriating images and visual content found through Google searches, which he then reinterprets and recontextualizes. By doing so, he addresses themes such as the commodification of information, the blurred boundaries between personal and public domains, and the manipulation of digital content. Wolfe’s work critiques the idea of originality in the digital age, where content is endlessly copied, shared, and altered.
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His practice often combines digital and physical mediums, with works ranging from large-scale installations to smaller, more intimate pieces. He might manipulate screenshots or use software to transform visual data into abstract forms, emphasizing the tension between the synthetic nature of digital information and the physical world it attempts to represent. His work raises questions about authorship, the nature of art in the digital age, and the shifting boundaries between reality and representation.
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Wolfe’s art also touches on themes of surveillance and privacy in the modern world, drawing attention to how data is continuously collected, categorized, and distributed. In doing so, his practice serves as both a reflection on and critique of the role of digital platforms like Google in shaping our perception of truth and reality. Through this fusion of technology and art, Michael Wolfe offers a thought-provoking commentary on the digital age and its implications for contemporary culture.
David Thomas Smith
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David Thomas Smith is an artist renowned for his innovative use of satellite images, mainly from Google Maps, to create intricate and thought-provoking works. His art often explores the intersection of global capitalism, environmental degradation, and the visual representation of human impact on the planet. One of his most notable series is Anthropocene, in which he manipulates thousands of digital thumbnails from satellite imagery to form complex, symmetrical patterns. These works focus on artificial structures such as oil fields, dams, and urban centres, transforming them into visually rich tapestries that blur the line between fact and fiction.
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Smith's work often references the concept of the Anthropocene—an era defined by human influence on Earth's ecosystems. He curates imagery from significant geopolitical or industrial sites, such as the Three Gorges Dam in China or the Mall of America in the U.S., to reflect on the relationship between human development and the environment. Influencing his visual style with traditional art forms like Afghan war rugs, he incorporates seemingly abstract designs that, upon closer inspection, reveal detailed stories of global capitalism, power, and environmental shifts.
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In his Arecibo project, Smith pushes these ideas further, engaging the viewer in an archaeological-like exploration of historical and contemporary moments in human development. The artwork uses digital manipulation to create a sense of layered complexity, inviting reflection on our global society's past and future.
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Smith's art is a compelling fusion of technology, environmental critique, and visual experimentation, engaging audiences in a broader conversation about the ongoing transformation of our world.
Jon Rafman
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Jon Rafman is a Canadian artist known for exploring the digital realm and its intersection with contemporary life. His work often examines the impact of technology on human experience, identity, and perception. One of Rafman's most significant contributions is using Google Street View as a medium for creating art. Through this platform, Rafman transforms the every day, often overlooked moments captured by Google's panoramic camera into works of art that delve into themes of isolation, voyeurism, and the uncanny.
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In his acclaimed project Nine Eyes of Google Street View (2008–present), Rafman navigates the vast archive of Google's street-level imagery, selecting and curating accidental or serendipitous images that reflect the randomness and strangeness of the modern world. These images often capture peculiar scenes, moments of human vulnerability, or unusual juxtapositions, showcasing the unintentional beauty hidden within the vastness of digital space. The project reflects the artist's fascination with how technology mediates our understanding of the world and human interaction.
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Rafman also uses online resources to explore digital culture, virtual landscapes, and internet subcultures. His work incorporates elements of video games, 3D modelling, and digital manipulation to craft immersive, often surreal environments. In works like Still Life (Betamale)(2013), Rafman combines 3D animation and found footage to create a haunting digital narrative that questions the nature of identity and reality in the virtual age.
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By repurposing digital technologies and internet-based resources, Jon Rafman captures the strange, surreal, and often unsettling aspects of our online lives. His work underscores the complex relationship between humanity and the digital technologies that shape our existence, offering a critical reflection on the impact of the internet on contemporary culture.
References:
David Thomas Smith [WWW Document], n.d. . David Thomas Smith. URL https://www.david-thomas-smith.com (accessed 2.4.24).
Feustel, M., 2019. Michael Wolf obituary. The Guardian.
INTERVIEW with David Thomas Smith [WWW Document], 2024. . Al-Tiba9 Contemporary Art. URL https://www.altiba9.com/artist-interviews/david-thomas-smith-photography-digital-art-anthropocene (accessed 2.4.24).
Jon Rafman | Artnet [WWW Document], n.d. URL https://www.artnet.com/artists/jon-rafman/ (accessed 2.4.24).
Jon Rafman: If we spend as much time on the internet as we do off of it, where do we actually live? [WWW Document], n.d. URL https://www.flaunt.com/blog/art-jon-rafman (accessed 2.4.24).
Michael Wolf | Artnet [WWW Document], n.d. URL https://www.artnet.com/artists/michael-wolf/ (accessed 2.4.24).
MICHAEL WOLF PHOTOGRAPHY [WWW Document], n.d. URL https://photomichaelwolf.com/# (accessed 2.4.24).
Portraits of the Anthropocene by David Thomas Smith, 2012. . The Hollywood Forest Story : An EcoSocial Art Practice | Co. Carlow Ireland. URL https://hollywoodforest.com/2012/05/24/portraits-anthropocene-david-thomas-smith/ (accessed 2.4.24).
Rafman, J., n.d. Jon Rafman [WWW Document]. Jon Rafman. URL http://jonrafman.com (accessed 2.4.24).

Exercise: 4.2
Write a short summary of Foucault’s arguments, and comment on the relevance of his theory to digital culture.
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Michel Foucault's essay "Panopticon" discusses the concept of a hypothetical prison designed with a central observation tower that allows a single guard to observe all inmates. Inmates, in turn, can also watch the guards.
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The key points include:
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Surveillance and Power: The panopticon illustrates how surveillance can be a power mechanism. The constant possibility of being observed influences individuals to regulate their behaviour.
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Discipline and Control: Foucault explores how the panopticon operates as a tool for disciplinary control. It fosters self-regulation among individuals, leading them to conform to societal norms without direct supervision.
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Invisibility of Power: The asymmetry of visibility gives the observer power and induces uncertainty in those being observed. This invisibility of power is a crucial aspect of the panopticon.
Relevance to Digital Culture:
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Online Surveillance: In the digital age, the panopticon concept is relevant to discussions about online surveillance, where individuals may feel constantly monitored through digital platforms and technologies.
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Social Media and Self-Regulation: Social media platforms act as modern panopticons, where users engage in self-discipline due to their peers' awareness of being observed and contributing to the shaping of online behaviour.
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Algorithmic Control: The invisible algorithms that dictate content visibility and user experiences on digital platforms parallel the panopticon's unseen power structure, influencing individuals' choices and actions.
In summary:
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Foucault's "Panopticon" essay remains relevant to digital culture by offering insights into the dynamics of surveillance, power, and self-discipline, particularly in the context of online environments and the pervasive influence of digital technologies.
References:
Foucault, Michel | Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy, n.d. URL https://iep.utm.edu/foucault/ (accessed 2.6.24).
Joy, E., n.d. The Late Foucault, the One Who Got Away: Post/medieval Ascesis. URL https://www.inthemedievalmiddle.com/2011/12/late-foucault-one-who-got-away.html (accessed 2.6.24).
Key concepts, 2018. . Foucault News. URL https://michel-foucault.com/key-concepts/ (accessed 2.6.24).
PHILOSOPHY - Michel Foucault, 2015.
Pollard, C., 2019. Explainer: the ideas of Foucault [WWW Document]. The Conversation. URL http://theconversation.com/explainer-the-ideas-of-foucault-99758 (accessed 2.6.24).
Power by Michel Foucault [WWW Document], n.d. URL https://www.penguin.com.au/books/power-9780241435083 (accessed 2.6.24).
Exercise: 4.3
Taking inspiration from an image or idea you’ve researched, create your own photographic
response to an internet meme. This may be something original, or your own interpretation
of an existing meme. It might be funny or profound, but it should make people want to look
at it and share it.
I considered several different types of meme's which can be referenced in my blog post. After careful consideration, as this unit is focussed on the digital self, I decided to create a meme based on A.I.

References:
14 funny tech memes [WWW Document], n.d. URL https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/14-funny-tech-memes-chris-allen (accessed 2.1.25).
Best Funny tech Memes [WWW Document], n.d. . 9GAG. URL http://9gag.com/tag/tech (accessed 2.1.25).
Day, E., 2024. AI and Technology Memes That Live in My Head Rent Free. Medium. URL https://medium.com/@TheElisaDay/ai-and-technology-memes-that-live-in-my-head-rent-free-3bbbdb80e11a (accessed 2.1.25).
DON`T PANIC on Red Push Button. 3d Illustration. Isolated Background Stock Illustration - Illustration of design, text: 185926593 [WWW Document], n.d. . Dreamstime. URL https://www.dreamstime.com/don-t-panic-red-push-button-d-illustration-isolated-background-image185926593 (accessed 2.1.25).
DON’T PRESS THE RED BUTTON..., 2018.
Robot S Hand is Pushing the Button Stock Illustration - Illustration of touch, touching: 76802640 [WWW Document], n.d. . Dreamstime. URL https://www.dreamstime.com/stock-illustration-robot-s-hand-pushing-button-clipping-path-included-image76802640 (accessed 2.1.25).
The Top 30 Information Technology Memes of 2025 [WWW Document], n.d. URL https://caniphish.com/blog/technology-memes (accessed 2.1.25).
Exercise: 4.4
Write a short (around 500 words) post in your learning log in response to the question: what does the phenomenon of the selfie tell us about how photography is popularly used nowadays? Illustrate your post with recent examples from the internet.
The phenomenon of the selfie:
The selfie is a window into how photography is used today for self-expression, social interaction, and identity construction. With smartphones equipped with high-quality cameras, people can now instantly capture images of themselves and often share them online on social media platforms. Selfies reflect broader societal shifts, particularly in individualism, connectivity, and the democratisation of photography.
Revolution:
Redefined as an immediate, everyday activity, once reserved for special occasions or professional work, now, it's accessible to anyone with a smartphone, giving rise to millions of daily self-portraits. The casual nature of selfies blurs the line between photographer and subject, which contrasts with traditional photography, where a clear distinction exists between who captured the image and who appeared in it. This shift indicates a broader trend where people document their lives and actively curate their visual stories. For instance, a trip to a famous landmark isn't complete without a selfie, marking one's presence in a specific moment and place while enabling friends and followers to participate vicariously. People form a digital self-narrative through these images, showcasing who they are or aspire to be.
Social Media:
Social media has accelerated the selfie phenomenon, transforming it into a social currency. Platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok enable users to post, edit, and receive feedback on their selfies, taking a photo from a private activity into a public performance. Likes, comments, and shares add a layer of validation, turning selfies into a form of social proof, where the number of interactions often validates one's social standing or attractiveness. This engagement system's creation has shifted; selfies are frequently staged, edited, and filtered to fit specific aesthetic standards instead of merely capturing a moment. Selfies are less about capturing reality and more about presenting an idealised version of oneself. Filters, which can alter anything from lighting to facial structure
Celebrities:
Celebrities and influencers exemplify this trend by carefully curating their online personas through selfies. Kim Kardashian, for instance, has built much of her brand around the selfie, creating a sense of intimacy with her followers while maintaining control over her public image. By sharing selfies that reveal aspects of her personal life, blurring between the public and private spheres, creating a sense of authenticity that draws people in. This trend has trickled down to regular users, who use selfies to share their experiences and build personal brands. In this way, selfies reflect the rise of individualism, where everyone can be their protagonist and storyteller.
Selfies - Conclusion:
Selfies have also become a tool for social movements and activism. During the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare workers posted selfies in their protective gear, highlighting frontline work's emotional and physical toll. Similarly, protest activists have used selfies to document their participation and show solidarity with causes.
These images humanise the issues, showing the people behind the movements and connecting viewers emotionally. In these contexts, selfies can go beyond self-promotion and become powerful statements of identity and values.
Ultimately, the selfie phenomenon underscores a fundamental shift in photography's societal role. Today, photography isn't just about capturing memories; it's a tool for self-definition, social engagement, and even political expression. Through selfies, people assert control over their representation, connect with others, and participate in an ongoing visual dialogue that reflects modern society's values, challenges, and aspirations. (Word Count - 534)
References:
12 Stories of Frontline Workers Helping Others During Coronavirus [WWW Document], 2020. . Time. URL https://time.com/collection/coronavirus-heroes/5816885/frontline-workers-coronavirus/ (accessed 1.12.24).
COVID-19 information and resources [WWW Document], n.d. . https://www.apa.org. URL https://www.apa.org/topics/covid-19 (accessed 1.12.24).
Dove’s Reverse Selfie: The anatomy of a campaign [WWW Document], n.d. . Sookio. URL https://www.sookio.com/blog/dove-reverse-selfie-the-anatomy-of-a-campaign-dpwyrh (accessed 1.12.24).
FUJIFILM Presents… #UNFILTERED – A portrait project exploring the differences between selfies, filters and reality – Barbara Asboth Photography, 2023. URL https://barbasboth.com/fujifilm-presents-unfiltered-a-portrait-project-exploring-the-differences-between-selfies-filters-and-reality (accessed 1.12.24).
Haines, A., n.d. From ‘Instagram Face’ To ‘Snapchat Dysmorphia’: How Beauty Filters Are Changing The Way We See Ourselves [WWW Document]. Forbes. URL https://www.forbes.com/sites/annahaines/2021/04/27/from-instagram-face-to-snapchat-dysmorphia-how-beauty-filters-are-changing-the-way-we-see-ourselves/ (accessed 1.12.24).
kim kardashian social media selfies - Google Search [WWW Document], n.d. URL https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-d&sca_esv=27b456ea1f260627&sxsrf=AHTn8zqsOG-GB76_meiBXz0xGzd2rZIjjw:1738570008587&q=kim+kardashian+social+media+selfies&udm=2&fbs=ABzOT_CWdhQLP1FcmU5B0fn3xuWpA-dk4wpBWOGsoR7DG5zJBnsX62dbVmWR6QCQ5QEtPRqut5gkyra9fZFbsKm1oGezYnjpNdvG1wGYSgRb3S4OySvqwfDl8W512e07XjHqj25YlWHGcWqARzavQlbQj1mgelpocNShFybimEjdia5n22x6a5tIdwdeMNSFvvVvFsm7xtZbuHKYNWZb2QzQ6pCqCiF-HQ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjGqp3-haeLAxWhkq8BHSxLAE4QtKgLegQIIBAB&biw=1424&bih=747&dpr=2 (accessed 1.12.24).
Resnikoff, P., 2016. Kim Kardashian Losing an Estimated $1.2 Million On Social Media... Digital Music News. URL https://www.digitalmusicnews.com/2016/10/26/kim-kardashian-losing-millions/ (accessed 1.12.24).
Reverse Selfie: Social Media’s Impact on Girls’ Self-Esteem | Dove, 2021.
Social media, filters and The Selfie Talk [WWW Document], n.d. . dove. URL https://www.dove.com/uk/dove-self-esteem-project/help-for-parents/social-media/social-media-filters.html (accessed 1.12.24).
Times, T.N.Y., 2020. Share Your Story and Photos From the Coronavirus Front Lines Around the World. The New York Times.
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