I agree that a lot of the comments on these topics are ridiculous at best. I don't think people should post hateful comments, but I do think that some need a little written "push" when they're out of line or thoughtless since they can't see body language here.
I comment often and I don't use my real name. I work in a tipping industry for one and I don't want to lose money because someone sees my name on a check. Not to say I don't stand by what I write, only that I don't trust everybody else who disagrees with me to maintain civility.
There was one "story" I commented on that I believe would have risked my safety had others known my name. I wouldn't have said what I said, but I'm glad I could because it needed to be said.
This online community does consider the poster. There are some people's comments I take more seriously than others. There are some I don't take seriously at all. I appreciate the dialog even when it strays and I appreciate it being aloud to stray. Sometimes it's relevant to the topic, other times it's nonsense, but what I most value is when it strays and I see an opportunity to connect with someone about something that is important to me. Topically relevant, no. Relevant in general, I think so.
And you're right, names do say a lot about people. I've used my real one at your request. Can you identify my gender? How 'bout my race? The anonymity in this forum can oftentimes bridge gaps that people less tolerant than yourself may not be readily willing to bridge. There's power in that, and I like it.
Posted on April 29 at 7:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Mr. Cole:
I agree that a lot of the comments on these topics are ridiculous at best. I don't think people should post hateful comments, but I do think that some need a little written "push" when they're out of line or thoughtless since they can't see body language here.
I comment often and I don't use my real name. I work in a tipping industry for one and I don't want to lose money because someone sees my name on a check. Not to say I don't stand by what I write, only that I don't trust everybody else who disagrees with me to maintain civility.
There was one "story" I commented on that I believe would have risked my safety had others known my name. I wouldn't have said what I said, but I'm glad I could because it needed to be said.
This online community does consider the poster. There are some people's comments I take more seriously than others. There are some I don't take seriously at all. I appreciate the dialog even when it strays and I appreciate it being aloud to stray. Sometimes it's relevant to the topic, other times it's nonsense, but what I most value is when it strays and I see an opportunity to connect with someone about something that is important to me. Topically relevant, no. Relevant in general, I think so.
And you're right, names do say a lot about people. I've used my real one at your request. Can you identify my gender? How 'bout my race? The anonymity in this forum can oftentimes bridge gaps that people less tolerant than yourself may not be readily willing to bridge. There's power in that, and I like it.
On Anonymous attacks and snide remarks