Blog Reveal

Throughout the semester, we were asked to post only one blog a week, with a few assigned ones here and there. Personally, I have never been much of a blogger, so this assignment was completely new to me. Some weeks, I struggled with finding a topic to write about, while other times it came to me quickly. Having to blog for one semester led me to have these observations:

The personal blogging platform changed the world of mass communication in numerous ways, one of which simply being because differs from typical types of mass communication. One of the biggest types of mass communication is social media. Nearly everyone is on social media, however not everyone has a blog. Blogging allows us to share beliefs, information and personal opinions, which is done less on social media platforms. Some may think that the personal blogging platform is refreshing because it's not one of the more used modes of mass communication.

The internet in general, as well as the personal blogging platform, act as tools for empowerment. Having a place to share your thoughts for others to read is a perfect example of empowerment. It can allow for the feeling of liberation and confidence, because not everyone is willing to share their ideas face to face.

There are numerous pros and cons of running a blog. Pros include that it is nice to have a website that is full of your own ideas and opinions. Additionally, having a place to direct people if they would like to know more about you is efficient. Cons can include the fact that it may be hard to remember to blog often. Also, people may find it difficult to find the words to express their thoughts concisely on a blog.

The internet, and blogging itself, can advance social movements as well as political mobilizations. Promoting Innovation, one of the Eight Values of Free Expression, is the idea that "a community in which free speech is valued and protected is likely to be a more energized, creative, interesting society as its citizens actively fulfill themselves in many diverse and interesting ways." Running a blog allows you to say whatever you want, thus fulfilling yourself in a diverse way.