Hugs not Drugs

Are these personal publishing systems of the new media really providing society with a positive/genuine virtual community of discussion? The anonymity of these online forums can allow for almost anyone to play an active role in any virtual community. Blogs have the potential to focus on illict subjects, those that are not condoned by reasonable society, but do so to help readers make informed decisions about these issues.

As an avid supporter of the dance music scene I have read numerous blogs on topics that society would frown upon: recreational drug use.

Tripme is a site in which educates and promotes the discussion of responsible drug use. It not only describes the differing types of recreational drugs available, but as in the link above provides an analysis on how 'clean' currently available ecstasy pills are. To me Tripme sidesteps the issue of whether or not people are going to take illegal drugs. Instead, Tripme accepts drug use and provides a forum for dicussion and approval of certain ecstasy 'batches'. Tripme places huge emphasis on shared knowledge and education to ensure its posters minimize the risk of harm in their recreational drug use.

Guiding hand and safety net... or promoter of unlawful activities?

Ben Palmer