Blog Nastiness

Deal Hudson

Majorie, one reason I waited for a while to enter blogword was the pervasive nastiness I found there. It may be especially true of any blogs having to do with politics or the combination of politics and religion.  Come to think of it, the blogs I read on film, music, and books don't have the nastiness. Perhaps you could explain that to me? 

Blog nastiness seems a bit to me like rude drivers on the open road.  They will honk, gesture, cut you off, etc. because the feel protected by their facelessness.  If they knew they would be recognized and have to answer for their behavior they would be ashamed.  The virtual world is full of rude drivers who have no fear of an encounter with a real person.  They can punch and jab to their heart's content. 

Open blogs are like open public spaces, in that respect, you will get those who have manners and those who do not.  I prefer public spaces where people are kindly. Nothing like walking down the street of a Southern town where everyone nods, smiles, and says "hello."  There can be disagreements on the street corner, even polemics, which can be lively, enjoyable, and instructive, but never rude.

I can only take so much of radio and tv call-in shows. It just gets too mean and I switch to another channel. I wonder how many other people feel the way I do.