The Cyberspace and Identity by Sherry Turkle: the Effect of Online Life - Article Example

Cyberspace was proffered to contain a range of psychological effects, to wit: for simulation of conflict resolution strategies; to work through personal issues to identify an appropriate personal identity; to engage in adolescent moratorium through intense interactions with both ideas and people. These effects are made possible through the accessibility of unlimited time, space, environment, and windows accorded by cyberspace. Turkle made one realize that “on the internet, one can be many, and one usually is” (Turkle, 528).

Cyberspace was proffered to contain a range of psychological effects, to wit: for simulation of conflict resolution strategies; to work through personal issues to identify an appropriate personal identity; to engage in adolescent moratorium through intense interactions with both ideas and people. These effects are made possible through the accessibility of unlimited time, space, environment, and windows accorded by cyberspace. Turkle made one realize that “on the internet, one can be many, and one usually is” (Turkle, 528).

Finally, the notions of identity and multiplicity were distinguished as a productive repercussion of cyberspace. Through cycling through, the model of multiplicity was enhanced and actually encouraged as a “state of easy traffic across selves” (Turkle, 530). The medium of cyberspace paved the way for self-expression through various identities where all exist in roles and inner perceptions of an individual. It ultimately changed the concept and orientation of culture from a psychoanalytic nature to a computer-based perspective.

Turkle finally concluded that “it is time to rethink our relationship to the computer culture and psychoanalytic culture as proudly held joint citizenship” (Turkle, 531). Indeed, online life has a profound effect and impact one’s perception and expression of personal identity.