Anonymity and Voice

Japan's people are known for not being particularly outspoken, often going out of their way to be more like the people around them. It is not common to see people speaking openly about their feelings, and even less likely in a public place. However, when one is given the chance to let their voice be heard without anyone having to see their face, a whole new culture emerges.

2ch (2channel or futaba) is one of Japan's most popular websites, which might baffle some people since it lacks any flashy designs or elaborate images. It is, in essence, a message board, but it is unlike the standard message boards that many websites have. Users do not have to register a username, and often are discouraged from providing any information that might identify them in the real world. The interface is simple, with most of the information provided in the form of plain-font text. Topics are divided by category, with each area (called a board) having a different theme, such as Sports, TV, Anime, Food, etc. Topics are sorted by when they were last replied to, and there is no search function on the main website. There are thousands of topics divided into over 800 boards, and with 2.5 million posts per day, it is the largest community on the internet.

The main appeal is that people can post their opinions or feelings without losing face in society. The fact that anyone, no matter their age, occupation, or any affiliation can post is quite exciting, and can often lead to some interesting topics being created. While most topics are tame, some can spawn serious debates and even move people to take action against things they find offensive or unfair. In one instance, Wired reports on an incident where Nike posted an advertisement that relayed a dangerous message, and it was taken down within 48 hours due to the pressure of the internet mob.

This type of internet community greatly demonstrates the role that new media plays in the future of the everyday person. No longer will people just sit back and feel powerless to change something. If enough people agree with them, they can get their message across to almost everywhere.

Source

First

"FIRST!" As one would, I say this now regardless of its lack of meaning. The comments section of a web site is usually set up for people to express their opinion of whatever has been posted, though most comments lack real criticism or commentary, and instead resort to single ordinal words or acronyms.