Representation & David Gauntlett: Blog task

1) What is collective identity? Write your own definition in as close to 50 words as possible.

A ‘collective’ identity is one that is primarily based around a collection of individuals who share a set of traditions, values and a similar understanding of the world that surrounds them. In the example of the British people, this could suggest that the majority of the population believe in democracy and freedom of the press, ideals which have traditionally been woven into the history of the British people.
2) Complete the task on the factsheet (page 1) - write a list of as many things as you can that represent Britain. What do they have in common? Have you represented the whole of Britain or just one aspect/viewpoint?

The Beatles.
Big Ben
James Bond.
The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).
British history.
Buckingham Palace.

Most of what i have said is a well known and only noticed mainly due to stereotypes. I represented large amount of viewpoints of Britain. Not the whole but not just one.

3) How does James May's Top Toys offer a nostalgic representation of Britain?

The programme also dwells upon and explores aspects of British history: the history of the race track, the history of Scalextric and wider British issues such as the decline of manufacturing jobs in northern Britain and a sense of regret that many of these toys are now manufactured abroad, such as Meccano in France, for instance.
4) How has new technology changed collective identity?

Because new technology involves bringing people together, then it makes it easier for people with the set of traditions and values together through social media. So for collective identity it makes it easier for people to share views.

5) What phrase does David Gauntlett (2008) use to describe this new focus on identity?

‘Identity is complicated; everyone thinks they have got one.’

6) What does Gauntlett suggest about creativity and identity?

Gauntlett argues that there is a shift from a ‘sit-back-and-be-told culture’ to a ‘makingand-doing culture’, and that harnessing creativity in both the internet and in other everyday creative activities will play a role in changing how a collective identity is created.
7) How does the Shaun of the Dead Facebook group provide an example of Henry Jenkins' theory of interpretive communities online?

Shaun Of The Dead Facebook group give an example of Henry Jenkins' theory of interpretive communities online because these passive audiences have created something of their own using a hosting website, Facebook.