University of Denver Digital Commons @ DU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Graduate Studies 6-1-2015 Alternative Models of Connectivity: Reclaiming Networked Spaces Philip M. Bain University of Denver Follow this and additional works at: https://digitalcommons.du.edu/etd Part of the Communication Technology and New Media Commons, and the Digital Communications and Networking Commons Recommended Citation Bain, Philip M., "Alternative Models of Connectivity: Reclaiming Networked Spaces" (2015). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 47. https://digitalcommons.du.edu/etd/47 This Thesis is brought to you for free and open access by the Graduate Studies at Digital Commons @ DU. It has been accepted for inclusion in Electronic Theses and Dissertations by an authorized administrator of Digital Commons @ DU. For more information, please contact
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[email protected]. ALTERNATIVE MODELS OF CONNECTIVITY: RECLAIMING NETWORKED SPACES __________ A Thesis Presented to The Faculty of Arts and Humanities University of Denver __________ In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree Master of Arts __________ by Philip M. Bain June 2015 Advisor: Conor McGarrigle © Copyright by Philip M. Bain 2015 All Rights Reserved Author: Philip M. Bain Title: ALTERNATIVE MODELS OF CONNECTIVITY: RECLAIMING NETWORKED SPACES Advisor: Conor McGarrigle Degree Date: June 2015 ABSTRACT Alternative networking is a growing field of study and practice due to advancements in computer networking hardware, and software protocols. Methods of integrating alternative networking configurations into infrastructure present enhanced forms of empowerment and embodiment for participants. Through an analysis of multiple hardware and software examples, this research suggests that practices of sharing and collaboration, which are embedded in the history of computer networking, have the potential to reinvigorate the notion of a virtual public sphere, and support the ideals of digital democracy.