Some Website Discussion Group Participants Behave Like Debating Politicians
During a formal debate, politicians seldom focus upon the topics presented. Each has memorized talking points designed to impress the audience. They are more interested in trying to discredit and denigrate their opponents than addressing the subject.
Some participants in website discussion groups occasionally mimic the behavior of debating politicians. Regardless of the topic, they maneuver the discussion toward a personal agenda. Not content with merely including their opinion among the others posted, they post a diatribe expressing their disdain for any opinion with which they disagree.
Such people are easily identified. They routinely post multiple comments, often several paragraphs long, within the same discussion thread. The tone of their post is often condescending or belligerent as they ridicule opposing opinions and those who posted them. Perhaps they are trying to project an aura of importance and achievement within the cyber world which they were never able to attain in the real world.
The wisest response to boorish behavior is to just ignore it. Refuse to be drawn into an altercation. Time is too precious to squander it debating someone who mistakes self obsession for self confidence and factoids for facts.
Some participants in website discussion groups occasionally mimic the behavior of debating politicians. Regardless of the topic, they maneuver the discussion toward a personal agenda. Not content with merely including their opinion among the others posted, they post a diatribe expressing their disdain for any opinion with which they disagree.
Such people are easily identified. They routinely post multiple comments, often several paragraphs long, within the same discussion thread. The tone of their post is often condescending or belligerent as they ridicule opposing opinions and those who posted them. Perhaps they are trying to project an aura of importance and achievement within the cyber world which they were never able to attain in the real world.
The wisest response to boorish behavior is to just ignore it. Refuse to be drawn into an altercation. Time is too precious to squander it debating someone who mistakes self obsession for self confidence and factoids for facts.
date
newest »
newest »
Christine wrote: "I have to admit there are times when I fall into the trap of debating such pointless comments. Then my brain engages and I walk away. Great post Jim. You are really hitting some interesting point..."
Christine,
You are not alone in being unwittingly drawn into a debate such people. They know exactly how to agitate a targeted audience. Thank you for the compliment and for remaining one of the most loyal followers of the blog.
Jim Vuksic
Great post Jim. You are really hitting some interesting points in your blogs - always thought provoking and entertaining. Keep up the good work.