Sunday, July 5, 2020
I’m Not Just Right, You’re Wrong!
First let me state that, on Facebook, I admit to the positive practice of nice photos of pets and family outings and staying in touch with friends, fair enough and quite healthy. But has anyone in the history of Facebook ever posted something such as, “Thanks for your opinions, you’ve changed my mind on this issue”? I don’t recall ever seeing it, but then again I only spend ten minutes or less a day on Facebook. It does seem to me that there are no debates there, as such, but merely rants, polarized screaming with plenty of invective. The point isn’t so much to debate the issues, but rather to prove one’s superior position.
It’s moral narcissism.
I’ve also believed that a great deal of the invective would never be uttered in a personal meeting. People “hide” behind the technology to express some pretty nasty sentiments at times, and often obscene ones. Is this just a fantasy release, or does it reflect the deep, dark recesses of their hate which they are afraid to release in the physical presence of others?
It turns out that Facebook is one great playground of confirmation bias, where you can hear from people who agree with you and feel reinforced, and throw rocks at people who don’t and feel vindicated.
No wonder it’s free.