Conceptualizing the weblog: Understanding what it is in order to imagine what it can be

Abstract: This article provides a model for defining the weblog and differentiating between its manifestations. First we have the definition of the weblog based on the basic format- websites with posts in reverse-chronological order. Second we have audience, the division between those weblogs that deal with personal issues and expect an audience known to the author, and those that place themselves in the public sphere, addressing a more general audience. Within those weblogs operating in the public sphere we can make a further delineation in terms of the domain of issues covered. Third, and finally, we have the organization of the weblog, either as a hobby, an income generating operation, or a professional operation