Anonimitas Netizen di Media Sosial

Abstract

This study aims to explain about the phenomenon of deindividuation appears in cyberspace,
especially in social media. The research question is why are netizens on social media making
scathing comments about the COVID-19 vaccine? This study uses De-individuation theory -
Gustav Le Bon and descriptive qualitative research methods by analyzing various comments
from netizens on Facebook and You tube accounts. Data collection was carried out in the period
November to December 2020. The results of the study revealed that the phenomenon of
deindividuation occurs on social media, especially by netizens who use accounts that are not
real names and anonym. Meanwhile, netizens who use self-explanatory names tend to make
more polite comments. This phenomenon shows that the courage to use harsh words ignores
norms and ethics that makes them think that their identity is unknown to public. Even the media
has suggested to comment clearly, but no sanctions are applied, so netizens have the freedom
to make harsh comments like He is the most correct. This condition of anonymity is the basis
for a person's lack of self-awareness