Expression: Identity Within Fandoms
A Journal of Audience’s studies allows me to look at fan identities within the United States and United Kingdom. In a more generalized approach, the article reflects on the culture of fans online and at conventions. “Each fan’s individuality becomes part of the cultural fabric in the convention community - the space itself both fosters and is fostered by a network of unique and shared fan perspectives” (Booth & Kelly, 2013). The idea of individuality can be applied to both the United States and the United Kingdom. In the United States, because of different interests in households and individuals, Doctor Who is not expressed as popular as it would be in the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom uses Doctor Who as a cultural reference point, meaning that their expression is more widespread and culturally accepted.
The Journal also incorporates generation into the idea of expression. “...the online world is often welcoming to new voices, new experiences, and new perspectives. Even those traditional fans that might feel resentment at the intrusion of younger fans still find positives to their presence” (Booth & Kelly, 2013). The United States uses the online world to communicate with fans from across the globe that have the same interests in science fiction and Doctor Who as some individuals do. The internet is a major segway for Americans to learn and relate to fans in the United Kingdom, because of their fandom that was created earlier than those in America. The United Kingdom uses blogging sites and technology to keep up to date on Doctor Who episodes and fandoms, but they also have many other outlets of social interaction about the show. As mentioned when talking about tradition, the United Kingdom uses Doctor Who in reference to school, work, and news station updates (Porter, 2011).
Expression allows fans to have a sense of self identity and belonging. It creates relationships and fandoms that people use as a support system. In order to fully engage in a fandom, I believe that fans must connect on personal levels sharing interests, goals, and dreams. This not only enhances a supportive relationship, but allows fans to identify with people across the world: the United States and United Kingdom. Without the medium of the media, fans in the United States would not be able to connect with other fandoms and have a deeper connection to Doctor Who.
Self identity within a fandom is incredibly important among young adults and teens. Fan groups, like Doctor Who, allow individuals to connect to a greater meaning. It gives people a creative and knowledgeable outlet where they are able to express themselves. The United States and United Kingdom share the idea of collaboration and personal identification through fan bases. Specifically within Doctor Who, fans are able to relate and connect with other individuals that give them a sense of self worth. Fandoms give more than just entertainment and commitment; fandoms give individuals the freedom of self expression and identity.
Porter, Lynnette. "“Doctor Who” and the Cultural Divide: Fandom in America." PopMatters.
January 19, 2011. Accessed December 04, 2017. https://www.popmatters.com/135627-doctor-who-and-the-cultural-divide-fandom-in-america-2496091352.html.
Booth, Paul, and Peter Kelly. "The changing faces of Doctor Who fandom: New fans, new technologies, old practices? ." Participations. May 2013. http://www.participations.org/Volume%2010/Issue%201/5%20Booth%20&%20Kelly%2010.1.pdf.