Lotte - Draft Thesis Outline

General introduction

Identity and sexuality are the major subjects in my work. More specifically I am interested in the way we view and shape our sexual identity through mediated spaces. I look at these spaces through different lenses, to create a distance from its explicit content, to re-contextualise it. The digital space as a space/place for sexual encounters has been the main focus of my work for the past years.

For the thesis I look at this online space as a liminal space and compare and draw parallels between on-line space and corporeal spaces. How do sexual encounters within a digital space, being a liminal one, create forms of desire and intimacy that differ from physical encounters? What inhabits this space? In what way does the liminal digital world shape narratives that explore our sexuality and intimacy?

Introduction

1. Background 


The digital space is per definition a liminal space. It changed the way we have sexual encounters. Specifically I am focussing on how these encounters in a digital space difference from a corporeal encounter. 


2. Thesis Statement:


Engaging in online sex asks for us evoking a body (Waskul 2005). This is done through webcam images but also through typed words and other forms fantasy. How do we shape and form lust and desire within this liminal space? How do online spaces and the sexual encounters within it relate to corporeal encounters? 


Body

II.1 First Topic: 


Narratives of online encounters
In what way does the liminal digital world shape narratives that explore our sexuality and intimacy?

Point A:

1. 

2.



II.2 Second Topic: Digital spaces 
What are specific traits of digital spaces for sexual encounter? How do these attributes exist online?

Point A:

1. 

2.

II.3 Third Topic: 
 Digital x Corporeal spaces

In what way do digital spaces for sexual encounter relate do physical spaces?

Point A:

1.

2.


Conclusion 


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Questions

In what way does the liminal digital world shape narratives that explore our sexuality and intimacy?

What do these spaces say without the digital translation and context of a website.

How do sexual encounters within digital space, being a liminal one, create forms of desire and intimacy?

How to visualise liminality within online sexual communication?

How do online spaces and the sexual encounters within it relate to corporeal encounters?

Why is the digital world one that is eminently suitable for exploring our sexuality?