Definition
Folksonomy
A user-driven classification system that organizes information through collaborative tagging, relying on user-generated tags rather than a predefined structure.
Definition
Emergent Social Structures
The patterns of relationships and interactions among individuals or groups within a community or platform.
How Folksonomies Work
- User-Generated Tags: Users create tags to describe content, such as photos, articles, or videos.
- Collaborative Classification: Tags are shared across the platform, allowing others to use and search for them.
- Dynamic Organization: Unlike traditional taxonomies, folksonomies evolve as users add new tags.
Folksonomies are often described as "bottom-up" systems, in contrast to "top-down" taxonomies created by experts.
Emergent Social Structures
- Communities of Interest: Users with similar interests form groups or networks.
- Influence and Reputation: Active contributors gain influence, shaping the direction of discussions and content.
- Collaboration and Sharing: Platforms encourage users to collaborate, share resources, and build knowledge collectively.
