Discuss
the influence of the Internet, and how it has changed Paganism in the 1990’s
Before
the popular and mass adaptation of the Internet, those seeking to learn about
Paganism were left to chance meetings, connections through others, or sparsely
filled Metaphysical bookstores. The Internet not only allowed for locals to
connect, but for people to connect throughout the world. It was set to evolve
into a truly world community.
With
this inter connectivity, Pagan traditions found an outlet to spread their brand
of the path. This was both a savior to a dwindling community, and its greatest
bane. Why? As the savior, the Internet allowed groups such as OBDO, RDNA, the
various Wiccan traditions, and ADF to find new members. It allowed for a new
base of solitary practitioners to find a community where they could share and
learn all the while staying safe within their home. Websites such as Sacred
Texts became available for those seeking to research just about any aspect of
Metaphysics. But the Internet has had a dark side for the Pagan community. This
dark side can be seen as part of the very same inter connecting and
openness. This new worldwide media allowed any person to become an instant
expert. Untrained or predatory people began to pray on those coming to the
path. This created a bad image for much of the Pagan community that many of us
still struggle with when viewed by the wider public.
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