The Slashdot Effect: Analysis of a Large-Scale Public Conversation on the World Wide Web
http://alex.halavais.net/research/diss.pdf

Halavais, Alexander M. Campbell
University of Washington-Seattle
2003

Abstract:

This dissertation argues that Slashdot emerged from collaboration among a group that shares a cultural commitment to open discussion. This combination¡ªthe dedication to open discussion with the technology to facilitate mass interaction¡ª allows Slashdot to perform the larger function of linking social groups, voices, and ideas that would otherwise remain separated.