Paralysis by Twitter Nerd Mob
I wonder how many blog posts and projects are scrapped, simply because there’s a chance they won’t be received well. And, by “received well,” I mean an angry mob attacks the creator on Twitter, blogs and the like. It’s sad to think what our industry may be missing out on, just because a few asshats never grew up.
Put Down the Torches
Or, agree to disagree. It’s OK to have differing opinions. It’s even OK to publish your opposing views. But, it can be done in a constructive fashion. There’s really no reason to berate someone just because you don’t agree with their view.
If you want people to listen and take you serious, then make sure you don’t sound like an asshat. If you’re not sure you can criticize constructively, then maybe it’s best to do nothing; just move along and avoid the mob.
Don’t be Trampled Recruited
Here are some key phrases to identify and avoid a potential mob:
- I’m boycotting such-and-such.
- So-and-so has no right to discuss such-and-such topic.
- So-and-so should be fired.
When you see these phrases, run, don’t walk, or you may be recruited by the mob. Once you’re in the mob, you’re guaranteed to look like an asshat.
Stand Strong
If you’ve been scared to write or create because of the mob effect, be strong. If you stop sharing, we all lose. Don’t let some asshat win.
Matt Steele
It often seems like the Internet operates in a black and white world . Your opinion is either wrong or right. Of course, in the real world there are lots of shades of grey.
I’m guilty of not writing some things because of the fear that I may be partially wrong, but I’m hoping I don’t do that anymore. It’s ok to be wrong, or at least wrong in the eyes of some people.
The internet can be both fantastic and horrible…often in the same day. Thanks for writing this, Jeremy.