The Increased Politicisation of The Internet (And Possibly Popular Culture)

Scuid Mhór

I was a reasonable active poster on boards around 2009 - 2011 (I think) and I really feel as if boards (and After Hours in particular) was much less political back then than it was now. It appears that politics has become so ingrained in main societal discourse today that we have no idea what else to talk about. I remember a decade ago After Hours was basically the forum version of Seinfield, very little of what was happening was political in nature. I know the "Current Events" forum was created to remedy this somewhat - so obviously other people noted AH was becoming more political over time, but even then it's not the same.

Society today has become hyper-politicised and I think it's damaging the integrity of many conversations. People are afraid to be light-hearted. Everything must be serious and everything must matter. Where is the banter? Of course this will be reflecting in posting trends and styles. It can presumably be linked to the increased centralisation of the internet also -- the less fringe and underground the groups, the more we must strive to discuss the lowest common denominator, and most things that people have in common begin in politics rather than obscure interests. Political engagement has today become some sort of secular worship and I think it would do us all well if we took a step back from such a mindset, I fear it will only divide us even more in the long run.

Lost implants

Bring back Mr. Figgly

freshpopcorn

It's across all social media platforms now nearly. I think it's mainly because people love having something to give out and complain about.

Scuid Mhór

freshpopcorn wrote: »

It's across all social media platforms now nearly. I think it's mainly because people love having something to give out and complain about.

I would argue it's got more to do with tribal self-identities in an increasingly secular and nihilist age, but we'll see what After Hours puts forth before I elucidate further.

uch

Did anyone mention, I like Cake

ILoveYourVibes

Every time i post something light hearted someone comments on my post count and declares i am an abomination and irritating.
I'll stick to politics.

Quantum Erasure

they moderated out all the moderately funny posters, and then acted surprised when the place became overly serious