On the Internet, Your Gender Is an Essence

case study #5, 1993-2024

I publish new cases every Thursday at 6 AM CT. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the format or feature your story in an upcoming case study. Share your feedback in the comments below.

Subject: Ellie, age 38

This case study examines the relationship between early Internet adoption and identity formation through the lens of a self-described “generational outlier.” The subject, Ellie, provides accounts of her experiences from 1993-2024, offering insight into the evolution from creative early internet spaces to modern social media. 

Growing up with limited mainstream media exposure but early Internet access, she explored fluid identity expression through multiple online personas. Ellie is particularly troubled by the evolution from the creative freedom of early desktop computing to what she views as the more passive, consumption-oriented nature of mobile devices.