Virtual communities, new environments same concerns: the case of Taringa!

Abstract

Online communities have been seen as a new social sphere that contributes to the emergence of democratic processes faster and better than those in the physical world. However, the scope and characteristics of these virtual social interactions needs a more profuse and deeper analysis. The purpose of this paper is to discuss how the actions of individuals in these communities differ from those in the traditional community. Do these virtual spaces accomplish the aspirations and promises we have invest in them? One point will address the complexities of establishing online communities, then moving on to determine how do norms are set in these virtual spaces. Finally the work will focus on the case study of a virtual community in Argentina called Taringa!