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Essay On Sociological Imagination Applied To Instagram

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Essay On Sociological Imagination Applied To Instagram
The Sociological Imagination Applied To Instagram
Instagram is an increasingly popular social media phone application used in everyday life to share photographs and videos online; however, the use of Instagram can be connected to various issues in society. C. Wright Mills (2010) formed the theory of the sociological imagination, in which larger historical and social forces can be connected to the everyday life of an individual. The sociological imagination can be used to distinguish the ‘private troubles’ of an individual from the ‘public issues’ of society (Mills, 2010). This essay will apply Mills’ theory of the sociological imagination to explain three ways in which the everyday use of Instagram represents a sociological phenomenon. Firstly, Instagram allows users to create an online self-representation in order to feel a sense of belonging in society. Secondly, the role of social hierarchies within Instagram will be discussed. Finally, this essay will explore the emergence of virtual communities …show more content…
Instagram provides a public platform for people to connect with others with similar social interests, forming virtual communities (van Dijk, 1997). As virtual communities operate online, it reduces the geographical and physical constraints of traditional communities, which is a new concept over the past few decades (Cristofari & Guitton, 2014). However, van Dijk (1997) argues that virtual communities are not replacing traditional communities, but are instead strengthening them by reducing these limitations. Reducing the barriers for communication and interaction among communities, both virtual and traditional, is enhancing the rapid globalisation of society. Thus, the platform Instagram provides for users to create virtual communities can be connected with larger sociological phenomenon, including rapid
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