If we change the word in the title of this post from “trolling”
to “commenting,” most of us would recognize ourselves.
Sadly, some of us, who are loath to think of ourselves as Trolls,
are in fact trolling.
An internet troll is someone who intentionally posts or
comments online to upset others. Trolls may use offensive language, personal
attacks, or other disruptive content.
“But,” say you, “I’m just expressing an opinion. I’m
confronting disinformation. I’m saying what needs to be said on a public forum.”
Then, you add, “And it’s a free country with a constitutional guarantee to free
speech.”
Yes, and no. Personally, I’d say to the trollers, N-O. No. Minimal
self-examination would save you from disgracing yourself and polluting the air.
Just ask yourself these three questions before posting:
Does it need to be said?
Does it need to be said by me?
Does it need to be said by me, now?
For those who are capable of honest self-reflection, twitching-to-type fingers would come to a standstill. It becomes clear the need for attention
at all costs is what caused the twitch.
Breathe. All better now.
You’ll have less to regret later, and the digital environment
would be a wee bit cleaner, too.
