I would argue that most communities are self-selected, virtual or not. >The difference between the physical and virtual is that physical ones must necessarily

I would argue that most communities are self-selected, virtual or not. >The difference between the physical and virtual is that physical ones must necessarily be inclusive, virtual ones are encouraged to be exclusive. It depends on the community. I don't see how physicality is the determining factor of what is inclusive or exclusive. Look at country clubs, or Hollywood. >Text on a screen is really difficult to anthropomorphize and sympathize with. Have you ever read a novel or story that moved you? Empathized with a fictional character? It is very possible to connect with text, you just have to be creative.