Spamming & Rating/Reviewing One's Own Book - Aggressive Promotion or Narcissism

Almost every literary website's discussion groups' rules include a ban on spamming. Whenever spamming does occur, it usually incites numerous posts by members of the group; expressing their displeasure for being subjected to the practice and/or their firm resolution never to purchase or even read a book written by the guilty party.

An author's response to negative reactions to aggressive self-promotional efforts usually include exclamations of shock for being accused of spamming or expressions of self-righteous dismay upon having their well-intended effort to promote their book unfairly attacked.

The exact meaning of just what spamming entails, as interpreted by the accused party and his/her accusers often differs.
The Merriam-Webster English Dictionary defines spamming as: "The use of electronic messaging systems (SPAM) especially advertising indiscriminately or sending messages repeatedly on the same site."

In my humble opinion, the formal definition is self-explanatory. If someone repeatedly and often posts advertisements for the same book on a thread designated for self-promotion or self-promotes on threads clearly not intended for self-promotion, such activity constitutes spamming.

Spammers in general have a habit of indulging in the "I" syndrome - the over-utilization of the personal pronouns: I, me, my, and mine, when promoting their work. Please note the use of the term over-utilization, not utilization. There is a distinct difference. The "I" syndrome is a clear symptom of narcissism.

The Merriam-Webster English Dictionary defines narcissism as: "Undue dwelling on one's own self or attainments."

Some authors choose to post a rating and review of their own work. With extremely few exceptions, they rate their book five-stars and proclaim it to be exceptionally entertaining and well-written. There is nothing wrong with such high self-esteem; however, it is often, if not always, looked upon with skepticism. An author's opinion of their own book is akin to a proud new parent's opinion of their new baby. The chances of either opinion being unbiased or dependable are slim to none.

I am certain that there will be some who disagree with the above statements. That is their prerogative. However; there is a popular business adage which I believe applies: "Your work speaks for itself. Don't interrupt!"