Admittedly blocking isn’t directly effective, but it could be if it generally gets people to stop feeding trolls, thus cutting off reward feedback loops for bad actors.
In a world where trolling was done as a recreational activity, this was a good strategy. This is not that world anymore, though, this is a world where right wing fight clubs are popping up in dozens of countries. Trolls are no longer recreational, they’re trying to slowly and gradually change the world in their image.
You’re right that it seems trolling is “weaponized” now. However, I (optimistically) don’t want to (cynically) admit weaponized trolling is the rule instead of the exception.
Blocking people makes the place more pleasant for you, which makes you a more pleasant person to interact with and the people you respond to will tend to reflect that.
Blocking people denies them interaction even in their less acerbic comments, making the place less fun for people who are so inclined.
Since becoming a parent, I’ve learned that sometimes self-care is caring for others because it helps us keep from being ground down to our worse selves.
That’s not to say more can’t be done, but don’t discount the effectiveness of starving negativity of air.
Liberal use of the block button.
Sorry, I should clarify: better for everyone*
I want to help improve the experience, not just for my own benefit.
Admittedly blocking isn’t directly effective, but it could be if it generally gets people to stop feeding trolls, thus cutting off reward feedback loops for bad actors.
Just a thought.
In a world where trolling was done as a recreational activity, this was a good strategy. This is not that world anymore, though, this is a world where right wing fight clubs are popping up in dozens of countries. Trolls are no longer recreational, they’re trying to slowly and gradually change the world in their image.
You’re right that it seems trolling is “weaponized” now. However, I (optimistically) don’t want to (cynically) admit weaponized trolling is the rule instead of the exception.
Food for consideration:
Since becoming a parent, I’ve learned that sometimes self-care is caring for others because it helps us keep from being ground down to our worse selves.
That’s not to say more can’t be done, but don’t discount the effectiveness of starving negativity of air.
100%.