So I’ve got this theory as to why we’re still dealing with the same people causing “controversies” in the speculative fiction community:
Here’s some reasons why trolls exist:
- Attention and recognition, even if negative
- Power (the power to disrupt)
- Vandalism
- The thrill of breaking social conventions
- Sabotaging groups the troll dislikes
- Immaturity
Here’s some ways to recognize trolls:
- Trolls generally use provocative and confrontational language. A clever one will mix it up with relevant and friendly posts.
- Trolls hardly ever stick to the topic; they beat around the bush with the intention to confuse the reader.
- Trolls of the subtle variety flag off their attack with innocent questions. You will often find them dressed up as new members of forums and chat rooms.
- Trolls lack understanding of a topic. They will not respond with a proper answer to a proper question.
As background, please keep in mind that the flaming-crotch-sworded one (#notcompensating) was kicked out of a professional writer’s organization for deliberately acting to defame the organization.
Then take a look at the self-congratulatory backpatting of some folks about the second controversy around the Hugos this year while keeping the above lists in mind.
PS: If you want your concerns about award voting taken seriously, perhaps you shouldn’t act like a troll while advancing those concerns. Because no matter how good your concerns are, all people are going to hear is the roaring of a troll.
PPS: Can someone explain to me why “social justice warrior” is supposed to be a negative? When someone says that label, I think of this:
And I really, really don’t see how that’s a bad thing.