Tech Social Norms: Experimentation and Sociological Insights

Introduction to Social Norms in Technology

In the realm of social interactions, particularly in the digital age, the influence of social norms is a pervasive yet often understated force. Drawing upon the theories of Harold Garfinkel, Peter Berger, and Thomas Luckmann, my exploration seeks to uncover the extent to which these norms govern our online behavior. The unique characteristics of online communication, such as the veil of anonymity and the absence of physical presence, present a distinct landscape for social interactions.

Unlike face-to-face communication, where body language and immediate feedback play significant roles, digital communication relies heavily on written text, emojis, and sometimes, delayed responses. This alteration in the mode of interaction might influence how individuals perceive and adhere to social norms. The hypothesis driving this investigation posits that these social norms not only persist in the digital domain but also shape and are shaped by the distinctive features of online communication.

Experiment with 'The Oversharer'

Observations with Mother

Embarking on a journey as 'The Oversharer,' I initiated an unconventional experiment by sending a barrage of personal texts to my mother.

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Typically, our conversations are spurred by necessity rather than casual updates. Surprisingly, my mother's response was not of bewilderment but of gratitude, as she enthusiastically engaged in this atypical exchange. This reaction prompted a reflection on the frequency and depth of our communication, particularly in the context of a college student living away from home. This part of the experiment highlights the emotional dimensions of digital communication, which often go unexamined.

The unexpected personal information might impact the receiver differently, depending on the nature of their relationship with the sender and their individual disposition towards such communication.

Observations with Classmate

Extending this experiment to an old high school classmate, the reaction was similarly accommodating. Despite the abrupt and uncharacteristic nature of my texts, she reciprocated with similar updates. This interaction illuminated the intricate dynamics of social norms within different relationships – the response of a classmate, as opposed to a family member, provided a contrasting perspective. Here, the underlying concern about violating social norms and the subsequent relief upon receiving a positive response underscores the complexity of digital etiquette. It raises questions about the emotional impact on the recipients of unsolicited personal information, and how relationship dynamics influence the perception and adherence to social norms in digital communication.

Theoretical Context: Garfinkel's Ethnomethodology

Harold Garfinkel's concept of ethnomethodology offers a profound lens through which to view this experiment. Ethnomethodology examines how people understand and create social order in everyday life. In applying this to my 'Oversharer' experiment, parallels emerge. Garfinkel's studies often involved disrupting normal social behaviors to observe reactions, akin to my approach of breaking technological communication norms. Ethical considerations in such experimental designs are paramount, as they involve elements of deception and the manipulation of social settings. Furthermore, the context and setting in which social norms are breached play a critical role in shaping responses. In digital communication, where physical cues are absent, the reliance on text and imagery creates a unique set of challenges and opportunities for social interaction. This raises the question of how digital environments might differ from physical ones in their capacity to shape social norms and responses.

Berger and Luckmann's Sociology of Knowledge

Peter Berger and Thomas Luckmann's exploration of how reality is socially constructed provides another theoretical framework for analyzing my experiment. They argue that social reality is shaped by previous actions and interactions. In the context of digital communication, this theory suggests that the norms and expectations are continuously evolving, influenced by every exchange. This was evident in my experiment where the unexpected oversharing led to a new form of interaction. The digital realm, with its rapid exchange of information and broad reach, can accelerate and amplify the social construction of reality. This dynamic environment creates unique social norms, influenced by a wide array of cultural and generational perspectives. The potential of digital platforms to shape and be shaped by these evolving norms suggests a fluid and ever-changing landscape of social interaction.

Cultural Background and Technological Social Norms

The experiment also brought to light the significant role of cultural and generational differences in understanding and adhering to technological social norms. My mother, an immigrant, might not be as attuned to the unspoken rules of digital communication as a younger, more tech-savvy generation. Her response to my texts possibly didn't register as unusual, highlighting the variability in the perception of digital etiquette across different cultures and age groups. Conversely, my classmate's reaction, though accommodating, was rooted in a shared understanding of the norms being violated. This aspect of the study underscores the importance of considering cultural diversity in the formation and understanding of digital etiquette. It also points to the potential for generational gaps to influence perceptions and behaviors in online environments.

Conclusions

The findings of this exploration into the realm of digital communication echo the observations made by Garfinkel, Berger, and Luckmann. The experiment demonstrates that when individuals are presented with unexpected social scenarios online, they often respond in ways that align with the new context, thereby reshaping the norms themselves. This accommodation can stem from a desire to avoid discomfort or embarrassment, both for themselves and the original sender. Additionally, the varying degrees of familiarity with technological communication, as influenced by cultural and generational differences, play a critical role in how social norms are perceived and followed. This study not only reaffirms the theories of these sociologists but also expands upon them by exploring the unique landscape of digital communication. It opens avenues for future research, particularly in understanding how different cultures and generations navigate the evolving world of online etiquette.