Autistic Culture Online

 Davidson’s article focuses on how the autistic community communicates effectively via the Internet. Though the autistic community is the center of the article, Davidson focuses on how a community can connect with each other based on their differences. For example, Davidson suggests, “that ‘autistic language games’ might be seen as emerging from partially shared experiential background and ‘identity’—that is, self-identification with a place on the spectrum” (794). The autistic community communicates well on the Internet because instant message communication is very straightforward and leaves little room for emotions. Instant messaging is an ideal way for the autistic community to participate in a common way of communication without feeling secluded.

Identifying with others who are from similar backgrounds is not an isolated concept. For centuries, people often identify with other members of their religion, ethnicity, handy cap and/or social class. Often times, people will join support groups because it brings comfort to be around others from a similar background.

For my example, I wanted to take a look at the “Shit Cyclists Say” YouTube video. This video portrays how the cycling community identifies with each other through a common interest. From the coffee bar to the road, the cyclist is clearly always asking the opinion of another cyclists. The video always pinpoints the three places cyclists communicate: over coffee, on a ride or at the bike shop. I like this video because it is a great representation of how people can bond over a common interest.