It has gained a lot of popularity because of it's cross-platform support. That is, Java programs written for one operating system will also work on other operating systems, which saves the programmer from having to re-write the program to get it to work on both Macs and PCs and other types of computers. Another reason for Java's popularity is that Java applets can be placed on web pages. When someone views that web page, they automatically receive and run the Java applet. Laughing Out Loud.
Most people are lurkers most of the time.
Mailing List Mailing lists are used to receive email from a source whenever that source has mail to provide. It is similar to Usenet except that all of the new messages go directly to your personal mailbox. Anyone with and email address can create a mailing list. A multi-player game that can be played over the internet using telnet. Such games are usually text-based.