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When something shitty happens to someone on social media, telling them "well that's just what happens "on the internet"" isn't kind or helpful.
First of all, "on the internet" isn't like, pretend. This is our life, our feelings, these are our photos, this is our work, our time
First of all, "on the internet" isn't like, pretend. This is our life, our feelings, these are our photos, this is our work, our time
People network, socialize, work, blow off steam, learn, invest, order shit, etc. on the internet and it's all fucking *real* life.
"The Internet" is not this magical place that exists beyond space and time or repercussions. This shouldn't be a radical concept.
"The Internet" is not this magical place that exists beyond space and time or repercussions. This shouldn't be a radical concept.
And folks who say asshole things aren't robots, they are fucking people. Mean, small, insecure people. Making real decisions to say and do real things.
Typing out something aggressive or abusive in someone's inbox isn't less "real" than if they called them on the phone.
Typing out something aggressive or abusive in someone's inbox isn't less "real" than if they called them on the phone.
If someone told you they got a nasty phone call that scared them do you tell them "Well that's just a risk you take when you answer the phone"?
What about if they came to their house? Is that what they get for answering the door?
Fuck no.
What about if they came to their house? Is that what they get for answering the door?
Fuck no.
Excusing this away as "well this is just what happens" is some nasty "it's always been this way" bullshit. It's victim blaming, it's a fucking cop out. It's easier to make excuses than it is to address it and make adjustments. Making adjustments is uncomfortable.
Folks can't stand to be uncomfortable. But that's what it takes. That's growth. That's part of developing empathy.
You making the separation between "real life" and "The Internet" is an excuse for you not to have to feel empathy for real people.
Check your god damn self.
You making the separation between "real life" and "The Internet" is an excuse for you not to have to feel empathy for real people.
Check your god damn self.
