Globalization of Localized Social Integration: Disembodied ‘Selves’, New Form of Social Interaction and Re-Identification of ‘Who We Are’ in a Virtual Environment

Abstract

Social network systems and virtual environment as one of the consequences of the globalization process, and its influences on
its users, are discussed in the present study. Some basic concepts, including the necessity of redefining and even
reconceptualizing them, are discussed briefly. This research addresses the facilities as well as the attributes of Facebook as a
Social Network System, and particular features of disembodiment, re-construction, and re-presenting social identities which are
already constructed as a member of small societies. Due to this, “Whether ‘virtual communication environments’, ‘social
networks’ are perceived as something like ‘escape way’ from socio-cultural restrictions or not” was questioned. For the purpose
of the study, an online questionnaire consisting of 55 close-ended questions, with brief information about the purpose and the
significance of the study, was posted at various FB users’ profiles. However, only the first 100 volunteer ‘Turkish Cypriot’ users
were taken as the sample.