According to wikipedia, the term virtual community is attributed to the book of the same title by Howard Rheingold, published in 1993. Considered a pioneer in the industry, Rheingold discussed the merits and social significance of computer-mediated communication and online social groups through his association as a founding member of the online community, The Well. He pointed out the potential benefits for personal psychological well-being, as well as for society at large, of belonging to such groups, and refered to his fellow "Well-ian" citizens as family.
We have a "family" here too at eHarlequin.com, and over time, 10+ years in fact, we've developed a unique and distinctive culture, a collective history and in one particular and arguably peculiar case a unique language. Shout out to the Bats
