EXPLORING INTERNET RELAY CHAT (IRC) : PRESENTATION OF SELF IN A CYBER SUB-CULTURE

Abstract

I perform an ethnographic study of a real-time chatting programme, Internet Relay Chat (IRC), examining how people present themselves in the chat rooms online, and their successful/unsuccessful interactions. I also explore the Presentation of Self when the chatters meet up in Real Life (RL) and how it differs from online Self. I postulate that they form a sub-culture, with their own language, rituals and codes. A typology of chatters is also suggested. Employing conversation analysis, participant observation on- and off-line, and interviews, I study the social dynamics of interaction online, and the process of carrying their interactions into Real Life. Debunking the myth of IRC, my data show people do not misrepresent themselves that much online. Their selves and identities are relatively stable, and not totally anonymous on the Net, contrary to widely-held beliefs and hype. Chatters apply their knowledge of the real world to communicate online, showing that the rules of virtual life are predicated upon real life ones. This thesis ultimately aims to highlight the normal aspect of IRC, with everyday interaction style.