How Internet Trolls Censor, Assault and Moralize
It’s all for the greater good
If everyone is thinking alike, then no one is thinking. ~ Benjamin Franklin
Whether in person or through digital means, basic human decency matters to me. After all, how we treat others is a measure of ones character. This is especially crucial when differences of opinion come in to play. It’s during those times, depending on the topic or the issue at hand, that the impulse to malign, belittle and cast aspersions can be strong. If one has a basic sense of humanity, one’s aggressive impulses will be responsibly managed so that instead of regressing into a vitriolic rant a meaningful message will be conveyed. Perhaps even a thoughtful dialogue will ensue.
As I shared with Jen Kim for her Psychology Today article about the right way to “win” an argument, “to be the bigger person, we must demonstrate a willingness to find common ground and achieve resolution, even if each person’s reality differs.”
Indeed, actively listening to another’s viewpoint is an essential skill that allows for conflict resolution. Making concerted efforts to diplomatically address disparate concerns is certainly ideal when possible.
Unfortunately this is more the exception than the rule.
