u r g

on internet etiquette

A survey conducted by the Pew Internet & American Life Project back in 2006 estimated that 57 million Americans participate in the blogosphere (I hate that word, btw) in some fashion. This growing trend has everyone in “old media” all in a tizzy about “new media.” And, well, they have a right to be.

One of the major criticisms about the “blogosphere” (ugh) is that without the accountability of face to face interaction, users are getting away with saying things they would never say in “real life.”

When “old media” articles started coming out about this emerging trend, my first reaction was: “Omg, you are just too old for the internet. Go back to Boca.” (In my world all old people are Jews that have left Brooklyn for Florida. FYI) There is a level of snark that I love about radar and on gawker blogs that is just impossible to find in traditional media. And, honestly, if you don’t like it, then go back to reading USA Today.

However, this week it got a little personal. When my friend/obsession Spencer was on crappy hour on Thursday and Friday I was actually offended at the personal level to which the commenters took their postings. The comments went from snarky to downright surly. It started to make me wonder: with the prevalence of the blogosphere (omfg) in our culture, have we forgotten how to fight fair?

Don’t get me wrong, I love a debate. I consider arguing over an issue to be one of my favorite pastimes. However, all of this has to be done with a certain level of respect not only for the person’s opinions, but for the person themselves. Telling someone that they are “fucking clueless” is no way to argue on or off-line. It’s just downright disrespectful.

So, as trite as this is about to come off, just… be nice. Go for wit instead of spite. If you do it, then I’ll stop hating on Julia Allison. Or… at least try to.