Blog 4-Comparing Perceptions of Religion Online and Offline

This week in class we are exploring the theme of community in digital culture. Specifically we have discussed the ways in which religious communities has been presented and acts online, and considering that extent these expressions differ from offline religious communities. Exploring the relationship between offline and online community is very important when considering how religion is framed and read through internet memes. We need to consider if the messages communicated about religious beliefs and practices expressed in these memes correspond to the traditional understandings of the religious community’s from which they emerge.  Or, could it be that the message meanings and humor in these memes emerge from outsider perceptions of these religious groups or personal interpretation of religious practice that might be considered unorthodox within their given community?

This week you are asked to consider how the framing of specific religious practices, values or actors observed in your meme collection correspond to the broader religious community and tradition from which they emerge.  In your blog carefully restate your case study topic focus. Then provide an overview of the key messages about the issue, symbols or actions that you are study that are being communicate. Using the two new memes you have collected for this week illustrate in detail to common assumption, typecasts or labels that emerge under these themes.

Then respond to the following questions:

-In what ways do these message and representations match or conflict with the official beliefs/rituals/understanding of the religious community you are studying?

-How does the scholarly article you read this week substantiate your claims above?

-What seems to be the popular assumptions or stereotypes about this religious group that are being promoted through your memes?  In what ways do you find this interesting and/or problematic?