I suppose it's the depiction of a mythical being living
under rocks and bearing ill will to all passersby that's made it such a popular
term in Internet circles. In the context
of a chat room or forum it's easier to hurl barbs at an opposing viewpoint with
that image in mind.
We all have an opinion and the right to express it, usually.
But for all the declarations of a free and open Internet the
reality is that democracy is not universally embraced. Chat rooms and forums have
"moderators" whose job it is to keep the discourse civil. Of course it's usually a volunteer position
manned by something less than a degreed psychologist. Personal biases, immaturity and abuse of
power come into play and suddenly the free exchange of ideas becomes a study in
censorship.
If you're on the wrong side of the discussion expect to earn
the label of the under bridge set. The funny
thing is that the childhood retort of
"takes one to know one" comes into play here.
Unless you're the type whose only purpose in life is to be
disruptive it's likely you've been unfairly branded. With chat rooms less a
democracy and more a fascist state there's not much you can do but find a more
like minded group.
Keep in mind that "troll" is just a word tossed
about as freely as words like "friend" or "gay" which bear
little resemblance to their original meanings.
There was a time, for example, when calling someone "friend"
meant more than a checkbox on Facebook and "gay" had nothing to do
with your sexual orientation.
Words co-opted for more of a lyrical convenience than
anything else.
Since most people throw "troll" at even the hint
of a contrary opinion it's almost amusing when you realize that they're guilty
of their own charge. If an Internet
forum is ruled more by fascism than free speech then attacking anyone with an
opposing viewpoint to the group is in fact being trolled. In effect, practicing
what they preach or denounce depending on your point of view.
There are still those whose only purpose is to disrupt and
they're closer to the original spirit of the word. Though, there's a host of other derogatory
terms with less ambiguity that are a better fit for that crowd.
So it seems it really
does "take one to know one"
Use the term too freely and you're guilty of the charge you level.
Best to not use it at all.
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