fire extinguishes when exposed to a vacuum

[allie]

Last time the anonmeme came around, I suggested that if one person was called out, the rest of us hold our tongues and give that person a chance to respond, unless they asked for support or help. Personally, I like this strategy. Drama spirals out of control, especially since most anons are trolls who aren't there to listen to reason, but just to provoke. The best person to speak in a person's defense is the person who best understands the situation, and that's the person being called out (how's that for a confusing sentence?) Having other people jump in just complicates the matter, especially since some situations that don't involve us on an individual level are more complex than we know.

I know it's natural to want to defend those close to us, but it's like throwing rocks into a puddle of sludge. It just splashes all over and makes the puddle wider by bringing in accusations of circlejerking and whiteknighting that undermine anything a person might want to say for themselves.

Obviously, this is just my opinion, and you guys may agree or disagree. Thoughts? I'm interested.

Comments

[burningvigor.livejournal.com]

I agree.

[tiassa]

...is it coming back? Huh. Oh well. Wasn't going to read it anyway.

[eco-mono.livejournal.com]

This is pretty much my stated policy WRT any theoretical wank that might fly in my direction: if someone sees someone anon badmouthing me, I'd prefer to just be told about it so I could handle it myself.

Can't speak for anyone else, but... yeah.

[subversive.livejournal.com]

Damn it, Allie, stop making sense.

[grimmhooke.livejournal.com]

I agree. I don't understand why people wank in the first place, but obnoxiously fervent defenders just seem to make matters worse. I mean, it's a nice sentiment, but it's really just feeding the fire nine times out of ten. :/

[laverinth.livejournal.com]

It's... hard. T_T I'm a terrible white knighter. But. I'm going to try...

[blinkinghell.livejournal.com]

I...don't read it. But...well, I HAVE been linked to things. Personally I think it depends on the person. If it's a full on attack, it seems unfair and it this person is suddenly getting it from all sides, I don't see the problem stepping in and pointing out - ok, see there. I started getting pissy, so I personally shouldn't reply to anything. But I think it's fine for sensible people to stick up for somebody. Or start a new thread with nice things that the anons would be dicks to attack. I dunno. It's all so dramatic so I stay the hell out.

Although if there's anything about me anytime, let me know 8D