My numbering might be off a little.
This comment is presented without context, because it could apply to a lot of people. If you absolutely must know who it references, click the spoiler below.
The quote:
When are we going to stop making stupid people famous for being both stupid and loud?
It’s not a great quote, by any means–some will bristle at using the word “stupid” to describe a person, for example, but I think what it conveys is an essential (and unfortunate) part of internet and social media culture, which is:
- If you act stupid (substitute word of your choice here), you will generally be ignored
- But if you act stupid and loud, people will pay attention to you, earning you “fame” of a variety
- The internet allows anyone to be both stupid and loud
- ???
Profit!The world becomes worse, by increments (at least to start)
In the end, this is basically about trolls knowing how to be effective, and the age-old advice for handling the trolls remains the same: Ignore them. When they are loud, it makes it harder to do so (think of a dog barking outside your window) but it can be done, and when the trolls don’t get any response, they eventually move on. Probably to a new troll, but eventually they may fall into the obscurity they deserve. Giving them attention, even when it’s calling them out for being “stupid” gives them the oxygen they need to continue.
None of this is new or revelatory. But just today I wanted to put it down in writing again. Life is about the choices you make, even when the choices are thrust upon you. We can all choose not to engage with the stupid and loud. And we should!
And now, a cat:
