As I read blog posts, news stories and articles I’ve learned to avoid the comments section. Why? Well, anybody who has read ANYTHING controversial (and sometimes not) on the internet has experienced annoying comments from people who are either ignorant on the topic or just like to cause trouble. Reading their comments often just maddens and frustrates me about the irritating people in the world.
Just as in real life, some of these individuals actually engage in this behavior with the sole intention of stirring up anger and internet arguments (which we all know go nowhere). The term for this group is “trolls.” Sadly, trolls have also been known to post disturbing and extremely offensive content in response to tragedies, such as teenage suicides.
Is this guy stirring up anger online?
Trolling has even come to a point of social organization. A look back into this site’s archive finds an excellent post from Cody Crumrine with a number of extensive responses. This blog post covers the “Anonymous” group, which hosts controversial online protests directed towards religions, movements and activities.
A suggestion for the rest of us: ignore inflammatory remarks on the internet. In my opinion, taking up your cause on the internet with a pseudonym is cowardly. Come out in the open if you feel what you have to say is worthwhile. And be civil!
