[Last modified: November, 6 2024 08:45 PM]
My pilot research project is largely concerned with digital community building and digital encounters through long form nostalgia content on YouTube. While this is not explicitly political in nature, it is also not neutral and there are some underlying political components that must be considered. Firstly, nostalgia in and of itself, is a highly politicised notion often employed in political arenas for the promotion of a particular political ideology. This is particularly evident among some right wing and nationalist movements that idealise past economic and social eras and employ nostalgic rhetoric of returning to a better or simpler time. In the digital sphere, it is possible that nostalgic content reinforces ideological echo chambers and provides a forum for discussing such political aspirations. While in my initial exploration of this digital community I did not find any explicitly political comments or content, it is important I remain aware of this possibility in the conducting of my research. Similarly, much of the nostalgia content I am engaging with is concerned with retro video games and media which stereotypically appeals to a male dominated, “incel” audience. As such there are political dimensions regarding gender, sexuality and power dynamics. As a female identifying, liberal, queer woman I must be cognisant of the way I come across within this community, as well as my own biases. While, much of my identity is concealed in the semi-anonymous space of YouTube, any work outside of this, whether it be in a private group forum or in direct communication with a viewer or content creator, presents the opportunity for political issues to arise. It is important that I check my own biases and work to dismantle any preconceived notions about this community so that my research is not affected.