Monday, October 08, 2012

Why we are so rude online



This article discusses why we would say things online—especially in social media platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter—that we would never say to someone’s face.  The author argues that anonymity can be a powerful force and mentions that professors at Columbia University and the University of Pittsburgh are investigating this subject.  The researchers’ initial findings suggest that browsing Facebook lowers our self-control.  “The effect is most pronounced with people whose Facebook networks were made up of close friends, the researchers say.”  In addition, the “likes” and support that Facebook offers can inflate peoples’ self-esteem, which can lead to a sense of entitlement.  This could be one reason why people lash out so strongly.  A common trend appears to be that people feel they can say what they want, since they do not have to see the reaction on the other person’s face. 


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