I've read a number of intimate accounts of online writers in which they describe what it's like to read online comments. All described it as being jarring, often threatening, and more of a blight on their lives than a source of illumination.
Undoubtedly, people regularly drop valuables down the drains in their sinks. But that won't make it rewarding to go prospecting in the sewers.
I think John is showing some satisfaction in his decision to avoid drinking from the toxic firehose that is called "online discussion." That you describe that very reasonable choice as "disrespectful" reveals a lack of empathy for the downside of being an online personality. It's not all love and insight around here. (And it almost invariably includes death threats.)
In my opinion, John McWhorter carries on in a consistently respectful fashion. Your own remarks are often well-crafted and insightful. This one struck me as inapposite and even disappointing (which reflects my generally positive regard for your comments).
I don't know what Twitter or Facebook or TikTok is like. I don't participate. I understand it to be the cesspool that you describe. Personally I've never seen a death threat or anything remotely resembling one in a substack comment.
Maybe I'm old fashioned but when substack authors specifically say "we would like to hear what you think" I take them at face value. John's comments make one feel like a sucker.
I've read a number of intimate accounts of online writers in which they describe what it's like to read online comments. All described it as being jarring, often threatening, and more of a blight on their lives than a source of illumination.
Undoubtedly, people regularly drop valuables down the drains in their sinks. But that won't make it rewarding to go prospecting in the sewers.
I think John is showing some satisfaction in his decision to avoid drinking from the toxic firehose that is called "online discussion." That you describe that very reasonable choice as "disrespectful" reveals a lack of empathy for the downside of being an online personality. It's not all love and insight around here. (And it almost invariably includes death threats.)
In my opinion, John McWhorter carries on in a consistently respectful fashion. Your own remarks are often well-crafted and insightful. This one struck me as inapposite and even disappointing (which reflects my generally positive regard for your comments).
I appreciate your explanation.
I don't know what Twitter or Facebook or TikTok is like. I don't participate. I understand it to be the cesspool that you describe. Personally I've never seen a death threat or anything remotely resembling one in a substack comment.
Maybe I'm old fashioned but when substack authors specifically say "we would like to hear what you think" I take them at face value. John's comments make one feel like a sucker.