Knowledge in social networks: identity formation of deprived people

The study deals with the optimistic and pessimistic views on the role of the Internet in the collective identity formation. The analysis of its role is undertaken in terms of the collective knowledge production in different types of Internet networks. Such knowledge characteristics as interactivity, alternativeness, unscientific nature, personalization, and universality are highlighted. Furthermore, the problem of collective identity formation is considered on the basis of such theory as social networks analysis. Relational and positional approaches to the identity formation are reviewed within this theory. From the standpoint of the first approach, a socially cohesive group of people is the condition of its formation, from the perspective of the second approach, it is the same position in the network. A compromise definition of collective identity construction is the concept of categorical network or catnet of H. White which combines cultural and structural approaches. The network model of identity formation is analyzed within the critical mass theory. The main network characteristics and its types that affect protest behavior diffusion are considered. The features of network and categorical identity construction in the Internet are analyzed. The types of actors influencing the collective identity formation are presented. These findings are illustrated by a study of M. Tremayne on the role of Twitter in the Occupy Wall Street identity diffusion.