Fan Culture

In his book Textual Poachers: Television Fans and Participatory Culture Henry Jenkins argues that fans are unfairly stereotyped as social outcasts, loners and obsessive nerds who are out of touch with the realities of life. 

However, could it be said that societies view's on fan culture has rapidly changed with the introduction of the internet - Jenkins' book was written in the early 90s, when the internet was significantly less prominent than it is now?

In his book he argues that fans cannot be socially inept, because they build communities based on shared interests and that fandom encourages creativity (such as creating costumes).

Comic Con would be the perfect example where both these thoughts can be observed.


Of course the Internet has now allowed fandom to flourish in a much greater way. Using sites like IMDB, fans can discuss and argue about their favourite films with a much wider community, and without the need for organised gatherings. Moreover it has allowed fans to upload and share their creativity (posters, videos, trailers, music etc) with the world.


As fandom has changed, I would say so has the publics view on it has changed as well. Today we wouldn't think that someone who made a film poster using Photoshop or posted a comment on IMDB was an obsessive fan or a nerd. These are socially acceptable acts that many people carry out every day. 

On the other hand dressing up for something like Comic Con might still encourage a modicum of ridicule. whereas visiting Comic Con in normal attire, is not only absolutely fine, but could be seen as being even aspirational. 

Thankfully the Internet has allowed people who enjoy something to discuss it, without classing themselves as an obsessive fan.