Are a few people ruining the internet for the rest of us?
www.theguardian.com
Why does the online world seem so toxic compared with normal life? Our research shows that a small number of divisive accounts could be responsible – and offers a way out

I can’t abide an unnecessary question hed.

When I scroll through social media, I often leave demoralized, with the sense that the entire world is on fire and people are inflamed with hatred towards one another. Yet, when I step outside into the streets of New York City to grab a coffee or meet a friend for lunch, it feels downright tranquil. The contrast between the online world and my daily reality has only gotten more jarring.

Since my own work is focused on topics such as intergroup conflict, misinformation, technology and climate change, I’m aware of the many challenges facing humanity. Yet, it seems striking that people online seem to be just as furious about the finale of The White Lotus or the latest scandal involving a YouTuber. Everything is either the best thing ever or the absolute worst, no matter how trivial. Is that really what most of us are feeling? No, as it turns out. Our latest research suggests that what we’re seeing online is a warped image created by a very small group of highly active users.

  • ellypny@lemmy.blahaj.zone
    5·
    8 hours ago

    This is why I think that people should always always treat strangers on the internet exactly the same way as strangers in real life. The sense of anonymity has allowed so many people to distance themselves from their own humanity.

    I sure as hell know that if anyone every spoke to me in real life like how half of Twitter does I would never want speak to them again. 😭

    • Powderhorn@beehaw.orgOPEnglish
      3·
      8 hours ago

      If half of any platform were to be rude and/or inappropriate, I’d exit, stage left.

      I don’t follow you to your conclusion, though. The way most people treat strangers in the U.S. is basically “when are they going to fuck me over?” We’re less pleasant in meatspace because we expect deceit.